House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, a Republican from Kentucky, is urging Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to attend a public congressional hearing focused on allegations of widespread fraud within the state’s Medicaid and social services programs. Comer stated that if Walz and Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison do not appear at the hearing scheduled for March 2024, he would interpret their absence as an “admission of guilt.” He emphasized that both officials, having previously served in Congress, are familiar with the seriousness of the situation.
The hearing follows a viral video by YouTuber Nick Shirley, which claims that numerous daycares in the Twin Cities are fronts for defrauding the Minnesota government of tens of millions of dollars. In the video, Shirley attempts to visit various daycares but is either turned away or finds them closed. Comer noted that reports have emerged indicating many of these facilities are changing their names and experiencing break-ins, further complicating the investigation.
The issue has attracted national attention, prompting the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to pause all child care payments to Minnesota. Additionally, Homeland Security Investigations has been dispatched to the state to assist in addressing the allegations. Over recent months, Minnesota has been in the spotlight due to rampant fraud within its social services. The Department of Justice revealed that its investigation into the state’s Medicaid program uncovered a staggering $9 billion in suspected fraudulent payments since 2018.
In response to these allegations, Governor Walz has initiated a third-party audit of Medicaid billing through the Minnesota Department of Human Services. He has acknowledged his accountability for tackling the systemic fraud that has emerged in state programs.
On social media platform X, Walz announced on Monday that he would not seek re-election, stating, “Minnesota has to come first — always.” He expressed pride in the progress made during his tenure, stating that he wishes to focus on addressing the issues within the state rather than on the upcoming election.
The situation continues to develop as the hearing approaches, with significant implications for Minnesota’s social services and the individuals reliant on its programs.
