The Washington, D.C.-area residence of Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar was searched early Monday morning as part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation, a Department of Justice spokesperson confirmed. Sources familiar with the matter told ABC News that the investigation is related to Omar's immigration paperwork.

Omar, a Somali-American who represents Minnesota's 5th Congressional District, was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2018. Her arrival in the U.S. as a refugee at age 12 and her subsequent citizenship have been central to her public narrative.

The search warrant was executed by Homeland Security Investigations in the Washington, D.C. area. The timing of this enforcement action is notable, occurring just three weeks before the midterm elections, during which Omar is seeking reelection. Early voting in Minnesota is scheduled to begin later this week.

Traditionally, the Justice Department has advised prosecutors to avoid overt investigative steps against members of Congress or candidates within 60 days of an election. The current action deviates from this recent historical practice, raising questions about the department's protocols.

Omar's office did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the search or her whereabouts at the time. The White House referred all comment requests to the Department of Justice.

This investigation comes amid continued public criticism from former President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly targeted Omar. Trump has made remarks about her Somali origins, suggesting she does not belong in the country and should be in jail. Omar has stated previously that such rhetoric has led to a significant increase in threats against her.

Omar, who came to the U.S. as a refugee, has been a prominent figure in Congress, known for her policy positions and her role as the first Somali-American elected to federal office. The investigation into her immigration paperwork could have significant implications for her political career and public standing, especially given the proximity to a critical election.

Further details regarding the specific nature of the alleged immigration irregularities or the scope of the investigation have not yet been disclosed by the Department of Justice. It remains unclear whether Omar was present at her residence during the execution of the search warrant.