In a move that has raised eyebrows across the nation, Maine State Representative Deqa Dhalac, originally from Somalia, has openly declared that her primary focus is the development of Somalia over her adopted homeland, the United States. Dhalac, who made history as the first Somali-American mayor in the country, has reiterated the loyalty of Somali immigrants should lie with their native land.
Dhalac, who is now serving in the Maine House of Representatives, stated unequivocally in a video obtained by The Maine Wire, “We Somalis living outside of Somalia must always prioritize our country, Somalia, and think of developing our country. This must be done, especially by those Somalis abroad, such as in the U.S.”
Watch the clip below:
America last: A Maine State Rep says her priority is to develop Somalia…
— The Maine Wire (@TheMaineWire)
March 5, 2025
Having fled the turmoil of civil war in Somalia over 30 years ago, Dhalac’s actions suggest her true allegiance remains with her birthplace. During the presidential campaign, she warned that a Trump presidency could endanger immigrants, including herself, as detailed here.
According to her official biography, Dhalac is now serving her second term, representing South Portland in the Maine House. She sits on the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee and is a co-founder of Cross-Cultural Community Services.
In 2024, she championed legislation that led to the creation of the Office of New Americans, a move that seeks to further integrate immigrants into American society. Despite her loyalty to Somalia, her work has undoubtedly impacted local communities, such as her involvement with Mercy Hospital and the Somali Community Center of Maine.
Living in South Portland since 2008, Dhalac has raised three children, all graduates of South Portland public schools. Her story resonates with a growing number of Somali-Americans navigating their bicultural identities.
Another prominent figure in this narrative is Minnesota Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, who has similarly expressed her commitment to Somalia over the U.S. In her speeches, she has emphasized her influence on American policy as it pertains to Somalia, generating controversy and calls for her expulsion from Congress, as discussed in a viral article here.
