Minnesota lawmaker questions Omar's campaign spending

Ilhan Omar sits for a portrait at KARE 11 studio.
Ilhan Omar sits for a portrait at KARE 11 studio in Golden Valley, Minn. on Tuesday, July 10, 2018. Omar is running for the open seat in Minnesota's 5th congressional district.
Tim Nelson | MPR News

A Minnesota state representative is alleging that Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar misspent $3,000 in campaign money on personal travel.

Republican Rep. Steve Drazkowski is questioning Omar's campaign purchase of a plane ticket to Estonia and another to Boston to speak at a political rally. Omar's congressional campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

It's the latest allegation by Drazkowski against Omar, who is seeking to become the first Somali-American in Congress. The state's campaign finance board earlier ordered an investigation of her state House campaign after Drazkowski alleged that she used campaign money for personal expenses.

Drazkowski suggested that the Omar campaign's $2,250 in payments to a law firm were for her divorce proceedings. Omar has said they were campaign-related fees.

Political Coverage Powered by You

Your gift today creates a more connected Minnesota. MPR News is your trusted resource for election coverage, reporting and breaking news. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.