Minneapolis mayoral candidate Omar Fateh, endorsed by the Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party, addressed community members during a rally today at the Brion Coile Center in Cedar Riverside. He emphasized the importance of early voting, which begins mid-September and runs until November 4th.
With approximately 200 attendees, many wearing T-shirts with Fateh’s name and waving banners featuring his image, the rally underscored a collective push for change. Fateh discussed his priorities for the city, highlighting his accomplishments as a legislator, including tuition-free college for working families and victories for rideshare drivers against companies like Uber and Lyft.
In an interview with Somali Media of Minnesota, Jamal Osman, Ward 6 council member, expressed his support for Fateh, stating, “One of the things we have experienced in the city council is that we have seen nine vetoes in the last couple of years, which is unprecedented. The mayor even vetoed the budget without providing a reason.”
Fateh expressed frustration with the current mayor, who campaigned in 2017 on a promise to eradicate homelessness within five years, yet the number of unhoused individuals has increased. He also criticized the mayor for failing to implement meaningful reforms in the police department and public safety system following the murder of George Floyd, arguing that the administration has stalled progress on critical issues affecting immigrants, workers, and vulnerable communities.
Osman emphasized the need for a leader who can unite the city council, stating, “We need a leader, especially a mayor who can work with all council members, regardless of their ideas.” He noted that the current mayor’s vetoes have hindered progress, particularly on legislation benefiting the East African community.
While both Osman and Fateh share a Somali background, Osman clarified that his support is based on policies rather than identity politics. He praised Fateh’s accomplishments, including initiatives like tuition-free college and the Uber bill, expressing hope for constructive change in Minneapolis.
Fartun Roble, a Cedar Riverside resident for 23 years, attended the rally in support of Fateh. She stated, “As a young Somali American leader, Omar Fateh understands our issues and struggles, and I believe he will face them head-on.” Another supporter, Kowsar, emphasized Fateh’s commitment to addressing homelessness and youth addiction, urging others to rally behind him.
Support for Fateh is particularly strong among the Somali community, with local activist Amina Mohamed stating, “Omar represents hope and change for our community. He understands the challenges we face and has a plan to address them.” Many believe his progressive policies will contribute to a more inclusive and equitable city.
Fateh’s campaign reflects similar movements across the country, such as Zohran Mamdani’s candidacy in New York City, both advocating for affordable living in their respective areas.
As the candidate filing deadline has closed, fifteen individuals, including current Mayor Jacob Frey, will compete for the position in the upcoming November elections. Early voting in Minneapolis begins on Friday, November 19, 2025
