Maine State Rep. Deqa Dhalac, a Democrat and Somali-born lawmaker, is drawing renewed attention after publicly stating that one of her top priorities in office is directing resources to Somalia, the country of her birth.
In remarks that have circulated online, Dhalac said, “Hopefully we will be able to help our country Somalia,” while discussing her goals and advocacy work. The comment has sparked criticism from conservatives, who argue that elected officials in the United States should focus taxpayer dollars exclusively on the needs of American citizens.
Dhalac, who represents a district in southern Maine, has previously spoken about her background as a Somali immigrant and her involvement in international humanitarian and development efforts. Supporters say her comments reflect a desire to support global aid initiatives, while critics counter that such priorities conflict with the responsibilities of a state legislator.
The controversy comes amid a broader national debate over foreign aid, immigration, and government spending — issues President Donald Trump has consistently emphasized during his presidency. Trump has repeatedly argued that American tax dollars should be spent at home first, citing struggling communities, rising costs, infrastructure needs, and veterans’ care.
Conservatives aligned with the Trump administration point to statements like Dhalac’s as evidence of what they describe as misplaced priorities within the Democratic Party. They argue that voters expect lawmakers to serve the interests of their constituents, not foreign nations.
Neither the Maine Legislature nor Dhalac’s office has announced any formal proposal to allocate state funds directly to Somalia. However, the remarks have intensified scrutiny over how Democratic officials frame their policy goals and whom they view as their primary responsibility.
As debates over government spending and national loyalty continue to shape the political landscape, Trump allies say the contrast could not be clearer: America First versus what they describe as global-first governance.
