Rufo Uncovers More California Budget Fraud

Investigative report details new sources of misuse in state programs

Apr. 8, 2026 at 8:36pm

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An abstract, fragmented painting with overlapping geometric shapes in shades of blue, grey, and red, conceptually representing the complex issues of fraud and mismanagement in California's state budget.A new investigation uncovers additional sources of fraud and waste within California's state programs, adding to ongoing concerns about financial mismanagement.Los Angeles Today

A new investigative report by Christopher Rufo and Kenneth Schrupp in the New York Post has uncovered additional instances of fraud and misuse within California's state budget. The report builds on Rufo's previous coverage of fraud in programs like the Employment Development Department, Medi-Cal, and welfare benefits, as well as issues with hospice care fraud that have plagued Los Angeles County.

Why it matters

Fraud and mismanagement of taxpayer funds in California's state programs have been an ongoing issue, costing the state billions of dollars. This latest report sheds light on new areas of potential abuse, raising further questions about the state's ability to properly oversee and administer crucial public services.

The details

The report does not provide specifics on the new types of fraud identified, but indicates Rufo and Schrupp have uncovered additional sources of budget waste and misuse beyond the EDD, Medi-Cal, and welfare fraud cases Rufo has previously highlighted. The article suggests these new findings build on Rufo's past investigative work exposing problems with California's hospice care system, particularly in Los Angeles County.

  • The New York Post article was published on April 8, 2026.

The players

Christopher Rufo

An investigative journalist who has reported extensively on fraud and mismanagement in California state programs.

Kenneth Schrupp

Rufo's co-author on the New York Post report examining new sources of fraud in California's budget.

New York Post

The news publication that published Rufo and Schrupp's investigative report.

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The takeaway

This latest report from Rufo and Schrupp underscores the ongoing challenges California faces in rooting out fraud and mismanagement across its state programs, highlighting the need for greater oversight and accountability to protect taxpayer dollars.