MEDIA STATEMENT FROM NATIONAL PRESIDENT DEIDRE MALONE
In Support of Congresswoman Ilhan Omar and Women Who Refuse to Be Silenced
October 22, 2026
As President of the National Women’s Political Caucus (NWPC), I stand in solidarity with Congresswoman Ilhan Omar and every woman in public service who has faced threats, intimidation, personal attacks or attempts to silence her because she has dared to speak truth to power.
After watching Congresswoman Omar’s interview on MS NOW, I was reminded of the courage it takes for women, particularly women of color, to serve in public office while facing relentless public scrutiny and hostility.
I am deeply concerned about the rhetoric and actions of President Donald Trump and his administration toward women who have publicly challenged his policies and leadership. Political disagreement is part of our democracy. But intimidation, threats and efforts to punish dissent have no place in a nation that claims to value freedom of speech and democratic representation.
Reports of a federal search of Congresswoman Omar’s home raise serious questions about the use of government power against political opponents. While every individual is subject to the law, investigations must be conducted fairly, without political interference and with full respect for constitutional protections. No woman serving in Congress should have to question whether challenging an administration will expose her to retaliation. Any allegation of politically motivated enforcement deserves careful, independent scrutiny.
Congresswoman Omar has every right to express her views, question the administration, advocate for her constituents and carry out her responsibilities as a duly elected member of Congress without fear for her personal safety.
We do not have to agree with every position taken by an elected official to defend her right to speak, serve and lead.
For more than five decades, the National Women’s Political Caucus has worked to increase women’s participation in the political process and ensure that women have a meaningful voice at every level of government. That mission is just as important today as it was when our organization was founded in 1971.
When women are targeted for speaking out, the consequences extend far beyond one individual. Such treatment sends a chilling message to women and girls across America who may aspire to public service: that exercising their voices could come at an unacceptable personal cost.
We reject that message.
We must be able to challenge those in power without being subjected to intimidation. We must defend the right to dissent. And we must insist that women in public office receive the same respect, protection and freedom to lead that every elected official deserves.
To Congresswoman Ilhan Omar and to women across this country who continue to stand firm in their convictions: You are not alone. Your voice matters. Your leadership matters. And your right to be heard must be protected.
The National Women’s Political Caucus will continue to defend the principles of equality, representation, freedom of expression and the full participation of women in American democracy.
We will not be intimidated. We will not be silent. And we will not abandon women who have the courage to lead.
Deidre Malone
National President
National Women’s Political Caucus