October 16, 2026 — Attorneys representing Democratic Representative Ilhan Omar have demanded the immediate return of property seized during a federal search of her Washington, D.C., home, arguing that the operation was unjustified, unlawful, and politically motivated.
According to The Associated Press, Omar’s legal team sent a letter to the Department of Justice on Friday challenging the search conducted on October 12 as part of an investigation into alleged immigration fraud.
Federal agents seized her cellphone, passport, documents, and other property during the operation.
Lawyers Question the Search
Omar’s attorneys argue that the investigation is an attempt to target a longtime political opponent of President Donald Trump.
They also raised concerns about the procedures followed during the search, including allegations that Omar was denied access to legal counsel and was not provided with a copy of the search warrant.
The lawyers demanded that federal authorities immediately return the seized property and preserve any audio or video recordings made during the operation.
Previous Investigation Found No Wrongdoing
The legal challenge follows a report by The Washington Post revealing that Trump administration immigration officials investigated similar allegations concerning Omar’s citizenship in 2019.
That earlier review did not uncover evidence of wrongdoing.
The current investigation is examining immigration documents connected to Omar and her late father, including questions about her age and citizenship history.
Omar arrived in the United States as a Somali refugee in 1995 and became a U.S. citizen in 2000.
Search Conducted Weeks Before Election
The timing of the search has attracted criticism because Omar is seeking reelection in the November 3 midterm elections.
Her attorneys argue that the investigation violates Justice Department policies intended to protect the electoral process from improper political interference.
The Department of Justice maintains that the search was lawful.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro has defended the operation, emphasizing that a federal judge authorized the warrant based on probable cause.
What Happens Next?
Omar’s legal team is seeking the return of the seized property and challenging the government’s investigative conduct.
The attorneys’ letter does not, by itself, invalidate the search warrant or establish that federal agents violated the law.
No criminal charges against Omar have been announced in connection with the investigation.
The dispute now centers on whether federal authorities acted within their legal powers and whether the renewed investigation is supported by evidence that justifies the extraordinary measures taken against a sitting member of Congress.
Sources: Associated Press — October 16, 2026 · The Wall Street Journal · The Washington Post · Reuters
By NJ RADAR Team