Tim Walz in full blown panic-mode as Somalian fraud explodes in Minnesota

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is under heavy scrutiny and facing a U.S. House investigation over his administration’s handling of large-scale COVID-19 relief fraud schemes, many tied to individuals in the state’s Somali community.

Federal prosecutors have charged dozens in connection with cases like “Feeding Our Future,” which diverted hundreds of millions meant for child nutrition programs. Across various social service programs, the total fraud is estimated by some prosecutors to top $1 billion.

Many of those charged are of Somali descent, prompting some politicians and media to label it “Somali fraud.”

Critics, including House Republicans and the Trump administration, accuse Walz of reacting too slowly to whistleblower warnings, allegedly out of concern over political backlash or accusations of racism.

Walz maintains his team first uncovered the fraud, reported it to federal authorities, and that court rulings initially blocked efforts to freeze funds. He has since introduced new anti-fraud measures, condemned the crimes, and pushed back against rhetoric blaming the entire Somali community.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Treasury is investigating whether any stolen funds sent to Somalia reached the terrorist group al-Shabaab.