Republican Rep. Randy Fine of Florida on Tuesday renewed his call for the deportation of tens of thousands of Somali nationals who entered the United States under refugee programs — including individuals granted legal refugee status.
Fine’s comments come amid growing scrutiny of the Somali community in Minnesota and other states, where federal and state authorities have investigated large-scale fraud schemes tied to social-services programs. While ongoing investigations have focused on criminal fraud and misuse of taxpayer funds, Fine’s position takes a broader view, asserting that the community at large has become a focal point for abuse of government systems.
“It is impossible to believe that anyone in that ‘community’ didn’t know exactly what was going on,” Fine said during remarks outlining his proposal. “Every single one. No exceptions. NOW.”
The lawmaker’s comments reflect deep frustration among Trump-aligned conservatives, who argue that refugee resettlement programs have been mismanaged and that the federal government should prioritize public safety and accountability over broad admissions of foreign nationals.
Fine’s call for deportations includes those who entered the United States through recognized refugee resettlement channels, a stance that adds a layer of controversy given that legal refugees are normally protected from removal under U.S. and international law unless they are convicted of disqualifying criminal offenses.
Supporters of Fine’s position argue that in cases where large-scale fraud or public safety concerns arise, administrative and legal processes should be used to reassess and, where appropriate, reverse refugee status or immigration benefits. They cite Trump administration efforts to tighten immigration enforcement and revisit asylum and refugee policies as part of a broader push to reduce illegal and abusive entries.
Opponents contend that deporting legally admitted refugees would undermine U.S. commitments to humanitarian protections and could trigger legal challenges.
