Rep. Her Clarifies Citizenship After Immigration Debate

Minnesota State Rep. Kaohly Vang Her revealed during a legislative debate that her family initially lived in the U.S. without legal status due to misrepresented refugee paperwork after fleeing Laos following the Vietnam War. Her comments, made while advocating for state-funded healthcare for undocumented immigrants, quickly sparked controversy and calls for her removal, with some questioning her eligibility for office. In response, Rep. Her clarified through media interviews and statements that she and her parents are naturalized U.S. citizens, emphasizing her intent was to foster empathy rather than suggest current ineligibility. Critics accused her of misleading the public, while supporters highlighted her long-standing advocacy for immigrant and refugee communities. The incident underscores the complexities of immigration narratives and eligibility issues for public officials. The bill remains backed by Governor Tim Walz and is expected to pass in the Democrat-controlled legislature.