Research Profile
Dalia Al-Aqidi is a Republican candidate running for the U.S. House of Representatives in Minnesota's 5th Congressional District in the 2026 election. Her campaign emphasizes confronting radical Islamism, supporting congressional term limits, and restoring patriotism and unity in America. She has publicly stated her intention to oppose radical Islamic influences and has criticized her opponent, Ilhan Omar, for divisive politics, positioning herself as a strong, patriotic alternative (Washington Examiner). Her campaign platform also includes a focus on national security and immigration control, reflecting her background and public statements (Dalia for Congress).
Dalia Al-Aqidi was born on June 1, 1968, in Baghdad, Iraq. She emigrated from Iraq in 1988 during Saddam Hussein's regime and has since lived in various parts of the world, including the United States. Her childhood was marked by exposure to Western journalism, which influenced her career path (Populist.us, LocalCandidates.org).
Her educational background includes studies in journalism in Iraq. She has over 36 years of reporting experience as an award-winning journalist and geopolitical analyst, working as a senior media advisor and reporting from Middle Eastern, European, and American capitals (IMDB, LinkedIn). Her professional identity is strongly tied to her journalism and activism, especially her commentary on terrorism and geopolitics.
Politically, she is known for her opposition to radical Islamism and her advocacy for American values. She has run for this congressional seat previously and is actively campaigning to unseat Ilhan Omar, emphasizing her immigrant story, national security, and conservative policies (MNElectionArchive, CBS News). Her campaign has garnered media attention for her efforts to challenge Omar and her outspoken stance on security issues.
Her public image is that of a patriotic, security-focused candidate who advocates for confronting extremism and promoting American patriotism. She has made public statements about her motivation to serve in Congress, emphasizing her background and her desire to bring a different perspective to the political landscape (Time).
Her notable news coverage includes reports on her campaign efforts, her opposition to radical Islamism, and her background as an Iraqi immigrant turned American political candidate. She has secured the Republican endorsement and actively participates in debates and campaign activities aimed at unseating Ilhan Omar (Ballotpedia, JNS, Washington Examiner). Her campaign continues to focus on issues of national security, immigration, and American patriotism, resonating with voters who prioritize security and conservative values.