House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer announced on January 7, 2024, that the committee will hold hearings regarding allegations of fraud in Minnesota’s social services programs. The hearings will feature testimony from state lawmakers who raised concerns about the alleged fraud but feel their warnings were ignored. The first hearing is set to address the so-called Minnesota Somali fraud scandal, which has come under scrutiny following recent investigative reports.
In a statement, Comer emphasized the seriousness of the situation, suggesting that Minnesota’s leadership has failed to address these issues adequately. He plans a second hearing on February 10, 2024, where Minnesota Governor Tim Walz will be invited to testify. Comer accused both Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison of being neglectful or complicit in what he termed a “massive fraud involving taxpayer dollars.”
The situation gained attention earlier this month when independent journalist Nick Shirley reported on several daycare centers in Minneapolis that appeared to be vacant during weekdays. Many of these centers, primarily operated by members of the Somali community, were allegedly receiving millions in taxpayer funds despite showing little to no activity.
In response to the allegations, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, a Republican from Minnesota, stated his intention to pursue legislative changes aimed at deporting individuals in the Somali community who have engaged in fraudulent activities. Emmer expressed his views on social media, stating, “Send them home. If they’re here illegally, deport them immediately; if they’re naturalized citizens, revoke their citizenship and deport them quickly thereafter.”
The Department of Homeland Security has also taken action, announcing a large-scale operation to identify and arrest individuals involved in fraudulent activities within Minnesota. A video shared by the DHS showed agents conducting door-to-door visits at suspected fraud sites.
Additionally, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared it would freeze childcare payments to Minnesota due to the alleged fraud. Deputy Secretary Jim O’Neill indicated that this decision was made in response to “blatant fraud that appears to be rampant in Minnesota and across the country.”
As these hearings approach, the implications of the allegations extend beyond local governance, raising broader questions about accountability and oversight in social services programs nationwide. The outcome of the hearings may have significant repercussions for those involved and could result in further investigations into similar allegations across other states.
