Census data show the opposite scale: about 72% of Minnesota Somalis are in the labor force, so roughly 28% are not working, a lower non-working rate than Minnesotans overall. The 92% figure appears to confuse receiving any public assistance with not working.
In a Feb. 2, 2026 interview on Dan Bongino's podcast, President Trump said that among Somalis in Minnesota, 92% of them do not work.
Census Bureau data (2024 American Community Survey) put the labor force participation rate for Minnesota Somalis at about 72%, meaning roughly 28% are not working, about a third of the 92% claimed, and a lower non-working share than the roughly 32% for Minnesotans overall.
The likely source of confusion: about 9 in 10 Somali households with children receive some means-tested benefit. But most such programs, like food assistance and Medicaid, are available to low-wage workers, so receiving aid does not mean not working. Even a think tank that favors lower immigration called employment a bright spot for the group. PolitiFact rated the claim Pants on Fire.
Sources
- Trump wrong that 92% of Minnesota Somalis don't work — PolitiFact
- American Community Survey, Minnesota — U.S. Census Bureau
- Labor Force Participation Rate for Minnesota — Federal Reserve (FRED)
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