Ilhan Omar's Biography

Ilhan Omar is a trailblazing Somali-American politician who has made history as the first Somali-born and one of the first two Muslim women elected to the United States Congress. Born on October 4, 1982, in Mogadishu, Somalia, Ilhan fled civil war as a child and spent four years in a refugee camp before immigrating to the United States. Settling in Minnesota, she quickly became a prominent voice in her community, advocating for human rights, social justice, and immigration reform. Omar earned her BA in Political Science and International Studies from North Dakota State University. Her first political breakthrough came in 2016 when she was elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives, marking her as the nation’s first Somali-American legislator. In 2018, she was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for Minnesota's 5th district, becoming a national figure known for her progressive stances and advocacy on behalf of marginalized groups. Ilhan Omar is recognized for her commitment to education, healthcare, and climate change, and often speaks about the importance of joy and hope in politics. Despite controversies and criticism, particularly regarding her views on foreign policy, Omar remains a vocal advocate for her constituents and continues to inspire many with her resilience and determination. As of 2024, her estimated net worth is $1.5 million, and she continues to be a force for change in American politics.