“I’m a Survivor” – Omar Continues Town Hall After Syringe Attack
US Representative Ilhan Omar refused to be intimidated after a man rushed the podium and sprayed an unknown liquid at her during a town hall meeting in Minneapolis on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. The Minnesota Democrat continued her remarks for nearly 30 minutes after the attack, declaring: “We are Minnesota strong and we will stay resilient in the face of whatever they might throw at us.”
The incident occurred at approximately 7:00 PM during a town hall focused on Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations in Minneapolis. Omar was calling for ICE to be abolished and for Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to resign when 55-year-old Anthony Kazmierczak rushed toward her from the front row, using a syringe to spray a vinegar-smelling liquid at the congresswoman.
Security personnel immediately tackled Kazmierczak to the ground as the audience cheered. Minneapolis police officers, who were present at the event, arrested him on the spot. He was booked into Hennepin County Jail on third-degree assault charges. The syringe, which fell to the ground during the struggle, contained what appeared to be a light-brown liquid. Forensic scientists responded to the scene to analyze the substance.
Omar’s Defiant Response
Despite staff urging her to leave for medical evaluation, Omar remained unbowed after the attack and insisted on continuing the town hall. “You know, I’ve survived more, and I’m definitely going to survive intimidation and whatever these people think that they can throw at me because I’m built that way,” she told reporters afterward.
In a powerful social media statement posted shortly after the incident, Omar wrote: “I’m ok. I’m a survivor so this small agitator isn’t going to intimidate me from doing my work. I don’t let bullies win. Grateful to my incredible constituents who rallied behind me. Minnesota strong.”
“The congresswoman’s defiance drew widespread support, though witnesses reported the liquid had a strong, terrible smell. One member of her entourage said “it smells so bad” and urged Omar to seek medical attention, but she declined until completing the town hall session.”
What was sprayed at Ilhan Omar during the attack?
The substance remains unidentified pending forensic analysis. Witnesses described it as having a strong vinegar-like smell. The liquid appeared light-brown and was contained in a syringe. Minneapolis police forensic scientists collected the device for laboratory testing to determine its contents.
Who is Anthony Kazmierczak and why did he attack Omar?
Anthony Kazmierczak, 55, was arrested and charged with third-degree assault. During the attack, he appeared to yell “you must resign” at Omar. His motives remain under investigation, and it’s unclear if he has legal representation. The U.S. Capitol Police are working to pursue the most serious charges possible.
Has Ilhan Omar faced threats before this attack?
Yes, Omar has frequently spoken about receiving death threats, many containing racist or Islamophobic language. She’s one of the first two Muslim women elected to Congress and a Somali American refugee. The Capitol Police investigated 14,938 threats against lawmakers in 2025, up from 9,474 in 2024.
Omar’s Legislative Focus
The town hall was intended to update constituents on efforts to hold ICE accountable for what Omar characterized as “unlawful terrorization of Minnesota communities.” She has been particularly vocal about Operation Metro Surge, a massive ICE crackdown launched in December targeting undocumented immigrants in Minneapolis.
Just before the attack, Omar stated: “ICE cannot be reformed. It cannot be rehabilitated; we must abolish ICE for good. And DHS Secretary Kristi Noem must resign or face impeachment.” This advocacy for ICE abolition has made her a lightning rod for conservative criticism, particularly as the Trump administration expands immigration enforcement operations.
Omar represents Minnesota’s 5th Congressional District, which covers Minneapolis and surrounding areas. Her district includes significant immigrant communities, making immigration policy a priority issue for many constituents. She has consistently advocated for progressive immigration reform, refugee rights, and protection for immigrant communities.