GOP Lawmakers Criticize Gov. Walz Over Massive Minnesota Fraud Scheme
GOP lawmakers Sen. Julia Coleman, Sen. Mark Koran, and Sen. Michael Kreun have publicly blamed Gov. Tim Walz for a Minnesota fraud scheme dating back to 2020. The scheme, involving multiple agencies and nonprofits, likely exceeds $1 billion in fraudulent activity. It exploited a federally funded child nutrition program administered by the Minnesota Department of Education during the COVID-19 pandemic, diverting funds intended for meals to low-income children.
The lawmakers criticized Walz for not stopping or investigating the fraud promptly. Coleman stated that Walz had years to act but only responded when the issue gained national attention. Koran described the scale and scope of the fraud as almost incomprehensible and held Walz solely responsible. Kreun also pointed to alleged negligence by Attorney General Ellison in handling the situation.
In response, the Walz administration stated that addressing fraud is a top priority. They highlighted systemic changes implemented, including adding investigators, auditors, and law enforcement personnel; engaging an outside firm to audit payments to high-risk Department of Human Services (DHS) programs; creating a specialized fraud-fighting unit at the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension; and installing new DHS measures.
Looking ahead, GOP lawmakers plan to pursue increased oversight of state agencies in the next legislative session. They argue the legislature currently lacks sufficient oversight over agency execution and operations.
