Minnesota Governor Tim Walz Faces Accountability Over Alleged State Fraud Scandal

By Theodore Bunker
Monday, January 5, 2026

House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., demanded answers Monday from Minnesota Governor Tim Walz after the governor announced he will not seek reelection in 2026. The decision comes as federal prosecutors and congressional Republicans intensify scrutiny of alleged widespread fraud across state-administered social service programs.

Comer stated that his committee has ordered Walz, a Democrat, to appear at a public hearing on February 10 as lawmakers investigate potential misuse of public funds tied to multiple benefit and Medicaid-related programs. Comer also called on Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison to testify.

“Though Tim Walz is not running for governor again, he cannot run from accountability,” Comer said. “The American people deserve answers, and they deserve them now.”

Walz announced Monday that he will not seek a third term, stating he could not balance a statewide campaign with governing as the state confronts fallout from major fraud allegations and broader concerns about oversight. Walz has served as governor since 2019 and previously represented Minnesota in Congress. He drew national attention as the Democrat vice presidential nominee in 2024.

The House investigation follows federal prosecutions that began with the “Feeding Our Future” case, in which defendants were accused of exploiting a federal child nutrition program during the coronavirus pandemic. Prosecutors alleged that tens of millions of dollars intended to feed children were diverted through false claims and phony meal sites. The case has resulted in guilty pleas and convictions, becoming a political flashpoint in Minnesota and nationally.

More recently, federal authorities and state auditors have identified potential fraud risks far beyond that single case. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson said investigators are reviewing 14 Medicaid services the state deemed high risk for fraud. Those programs have involved billions of dollars in billings since 2018, with suspected fraud potentially reaching $9 billion or more as audits and prosecutions expand.

Comer’s committee has requested documents, internal communications, and records from Walz and Ellison related to alleged fraud. The chairman also asked the Treasury Department to provide Suspicious Activity Reports that could help trace potential money laundering connected to the schemes under review. The committee additionally requested transcribed interviews with Minnesota officials as it examines how misconduct persisted.

Walz’s office did not immediately respond Monday to Comer’s demand for testimony. Ellison’s office has not publicly committed to appearing before the committee. The congressional inquiry sets up a high-profile clash between House Republicans and Minnesota’s Democratic leadership as prosecutors continue bringing new cases and the state’s political field begins shaping ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.