House Oversight Chairman Comer Demands Answers Over Alleged Fraud in Minnesota Social Services Funds

Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., chair of the House Oversight Committee, has demanded documents from Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz concerning reports about fraud within state social services programs.

In a letter to the governor, Comer stated serious concerns regarding taxpayer funds allegedly being misappropriated under his watch. “The Committee has serious concerns about how you as the Governor, and the Democrat-controlled administration, allowed millions of dollars to be stolen,” he wrote directly to Walz.

Furthermore, Comer questioned the alleged awareness of this fraud by Governor Walz and other state officials. The committee member expressed concern that authorities were fully aware of the fraudulent activity yet chose not to act for fear of political retaliation or pressure.

The specific request from the House Oversight Committee demands documents and communications demonstrating what the administration knew about the alleged fraud and their subsequent actions regarding it, including limiting or halting investigations into this widespread issue. Their letter directly addressed potential negligence: “The committee is concerned that you were negligent… had systems in place that allowed funds to be diverted.”

Federal prosecutors are already investigating a large-scale scheme involving the diversion of federal child-nutrition funds during the COVID-19 pandemic. These funds, intended for Minnesota’s vulnerable children through USDA programs worth over $240 million collectively, faced alleged misuse according to investigators.

Beyond general allegations, specific accusations point towards potential involvement by certain community members and whistleblower concerns suggesting obstruction. Reports indicate a nonprofit group initially tasked with providing food assistance allegedly used shell companies to channel money away from the intended meal programs for children. Prosecutors allege one aspect involved billing through housing schemes that never delivered aid, diverting over $104 million.

Comer has previously stated on Newsmax’s show “Finnerty” that if whistleblower claims are proven true, criminal charges against Gov. Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison might be recommended by the committee overseeing this case.

The ongoing investigation into alleged misuse of federal funds adds another layer to these concerns about state-level accountability during a major crisis period requiring careful stewardship of resources.