Ilhan Omar on the critical issues of the midterm elections: ‘People understand what’s at stake’

‘A country that was once a beacon of hope for those escaping persecution has become one that persecutes those who are escaping persecution.’ Photograph: Michael Brochstein/SOPA Images/REX/Shutterstock

The snow is already falling in Minnesota and with less than three weeks until election day, the priority for congresswoman Ilhan Omar and the state Democrats is getting people out to vote early before enthusiasm – and the temperature – dips.

“The number one concern for a lot of people I am talking to is Roe – it’s reproductive rights,” Omar said. “There’s also concern about inflation and what that means for people. We’re seeing a lot of enthusiasm. I hope it holds … We can pay attention to the polls, but if we don’t get the people out to vote, nothing else matters.”