The Department of Justice (DOJ) has commenced a criminal investigation into Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota concerning his potential knowledge of extensive welfare fraud activities that reportedly cost taxpayers billions. This development was confirmed by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt during a Fox News interview with Jesse Watters.
The probe follows closely on the heels of Gov. Walz's unexpected withdrawal from his reelection campaign. This decision was made public mere days after journalist Nick Shirly's report on pervasive childcare fraud in Minnesota received nationwide attention. Gov. Walz has acknowledged the substantial nature of the allegations but has also criticized both journalist Shirly and the Trump Administration for purportedly exploiting vulnerable communities.
Leavitt dismissed these accusations, focusing instead on the negative impact the fraud has made on Minnesota's image. She indicated that the state, once celebrated for its myriad of lakes, has suffered reputationally due to these schemes. The press secretary also highlighted the administration's aggressive efforts to combat the fraud, with numerous convictions secured and additional charges being filed against individuals implicated in the fraudulent activities.
The federal government has responded with significant resources, including nearly 2,000 agents from the Homeland Security Investigations Team and the involvement of the FBI. The Department of Health and Human Services has also taken action by cutting off funding to childcare centers involved, and the Department of Agriculture is conducting a thorough review of SNAP beneficiaries in the state.
The White House has made it clear that eradicating welfare fraud is a top priority for President Trump, who believes Gov. Walz may bear criminal responsibility. The scope of Gov. Walz's tenure includes implementing some of the nation's most stringent pandemic measures, such as closing all K-12 public schools and establishing a statewide mask mandate, which was contested in court. His administration also focused on gender policy, signing legislation to protect gender-affirming healthcare and establishing Minnesota as a refuge for transgender individuals from other states with restrictive policies.
Gov. Walz's vice presidential campaign with former Vice President Kamala Harris has also been a point of controversy, with questions arising about his military service and statements made about his experience with weapons of war. The most recent campaign video has contributed to this scrutiny.
A major fraud case involving the nonprofit Feeding Our Future has also cast a shadow over Gov. Walz's administration. The organization is accused of falsifying attendance records to claim hundreds of millions in federal funds intended for child nutrition. This scandal, among others, has prompted calls from Republican legislators for Gov. Walz's resignation, arguing that his administration's slow response allowed the fraudulent activities to grow before more stringent audits and enforcement were in place.
