A former federal prosecutor who drew attention last month during the immigration crackdown in Minnesota when she told a judge she hated her job now says she is running for Congress.
According to a news release and her campaign website, Julie Le is running as a Democrat in Minnesota’s 5th District — the House seat currently held by Democrat Ilhan Omar, who has said she’s running for reelection.
An announcement from Le’s campaign said it “promises to be a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change.”
“Julie’s campaign is centered on immigration reform that balances border security with a fair pathway to citizenship for those who contribute to society,” a news release from Le’s campaign stated. “Her vision is one of ‘Inspired Unity,’ where communities come together to support one another and build a brighter future for all.”
The announcement said Le was born into poverty in Vietnam, and arrived in the U.S. as a teenager.
“She faced numerous obstacles, including homelessness, but with unwavering faith and determination, she transformed her life,” the announcement stated. “Today, she stands as a successful businesswoman, community leader, and legal advocate.”
Le made headlines last month when she appeared in court on behalf of the federal government, with a judge ordering her to explain why the Department of Homeland Security missed deadlines to release five detainees who the judge said never should have been arrested in the first place.
Le told the court that she moved from her job as a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement lawyer to the Minnesota U.S. Attorney’s office in January to help it respond to a “tidal wave” of civil filings from detainees. She said in the hearing that getting DHS and ICE to comply with court orders had been difficult work that required her attention around the clock.
“The system sucks. This job sucks,” Le told the federal judge at that hearing. “I wish you would hold me in contempt so I would have a full 24 hours sleep,” she added.
A source said Le was removed from her Justice Department post after that hearing.
As of Thursday morning, online records indicated that Le has not yet filed official paperwork to raise money for a campaign. Her campaign has scheduled a campaign kickoff event for Saturday in Brooklyn Park, which is not in the 5th District.
The 5th District encompasses the city of Minneapolis, along with Richfield, Brooklyn Center, Fridley, Robbinsdale and several other communities.
Omar has successfully turned back primary challengers in the past — including campaigns by Don Samuels in 2022 and 2024.
