Senate Erupts: Rand Paul’s Blistering Attack on Ilhan Omar Ignites ‘Send Her Back’ Chants – ‘Ungrateful’ Refugee Called Out in Viral Firestorm
Washington, D.C. – October 29, 2025
The U.S. Senate chamber descended into chaos Tuesday afternoon as Kentucky Senator Rand Paul unleashed a fiery takedown of Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar, branding the Somali-born congresswoman an “ungrateful refugee” who owes America her silence. Paul’s scorching remarks, delivered during a heated debate on immigration reform, sparked spontaneous “Send Her Back!” chants from Republican senators and staffers, echoing the infamous 2019 Trump rally cry and sending shockwaves through the Capitol.
“She came here as a refugee – we fed her, clothed her, gave her welfare, schools, healthcare,” Paul thundered from the well of the Senate, his voice booming over gasps from the Democratic side. “And now she sits in Congress, badmouthing the greatest nation on Earth? That’s as ungrateful as it gets. I’m happy to buy her a one-way ticket back to Somalia – let her see the chaos she defends!”
The chamber erupted instantly. GOP heavyweights like Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Josh Hawley (R-MO) leapt to their feet, pumping fists as the chants swelled: “Send her back! Send her back!” Aides in the gallery joined in, phones aloft capturing the viral moment now exploding across social media with over 5 million views in hours. One clip, shared by firebrand journalist Laura Loomer, racked up 2.7 million impressions, with commenters hailing Paul as a “patriot warrior.”
Omar, watching remotely from the House floor, fired back on X: “Rand Paul’s xenophobia is on full display – America is big enough for critics like me who fight for justice.” Her post drew fierce backlash, with users flooding replies: “Go home!” and “Deport the ingrate!” Democrats scrambled for cover; House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) called for calm but couldn’t hide his grin, while Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) slammed his gavel, accusing Paul of “stoking division.”
A Rekindled Feud with Roots in 2019
Paul’s blast revives a bitter 2019 clash, when he first offered to fund Omar’s flight to Somalia amid her criticisms of U.S. foreign policy. “Visit the disaster – no capitalism, no rights, endless tribal war,” he said then. “She’ll come back appreciating America.” That spat followed Trump’s tweets urging “The Squad” – Omar included – to “go back” to their countries, igniting national fury.
Tuesday’s trigger? Omar’s latest tirade during a House hearing, where she likened U.S. border agents to ‘terrorists’ and defended Somali remittances funding militants back home. “America’s the real oppressor,” she claimed, prompting Paul’s Senate response amid stalled border security talks.
Paul’s Case: From Refugee to ‘Infiltrator’
The libertarian senator didn’t hold back, channeling MAGA fury over Omar’s record:
- Immigration Fraud Allegations: Married her brother for a green card, per investigators.
- Anti-Israel Stance: Accused of ‘Allah sidebar’ prayers during votes.
- Somalia Loyalty: Boasted sending $1 billion+ in U.S. aid home annually.
“She’s not American – she’s an infiltrator,” Paul roared. “Deport her now!” Cheers drowned him out.
Supporters flooded the Capitol steps post-session, waving “Send Her Back” signs. “Rand’s right – she’s a snake!”
Democrats Cry ‘Racism’ – GOP Fires Back
Liberal outlets screamed ‘bigotry’. CNN’s Jake Tapper: “Paul’s echoing Trump’s racism.” The Squad rallied: AOC tweeted “Fascism rising!” Omar’s office blasted: “Paul’s the real disgrace.”
But Republicans pounced. Trump reposted the clip: “Rand Paul CRUSHES Crooked Ilhan! SEND HER BACK! #MAGA” Hawley: “Omar hates America – Paul’s a hero.” Polling instant reaction: 68% of Republicans approve, 12% Dems (Patriot Poll).
Paul, unrepentant: “I’ll say it again – Somalia awaits.” As filibuster loomed, the Senate adjourned in tumult. Is this the end for Omar? With midterms looming, Paul’s blitz has America ablaze.
