Hawley Accuses Minnesota AG Ellison of Corruption in Heated Senate Hearing

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a heated exchange during a Senate Homeland Security Committee hearing, GOP Senator Josh Hawley accused Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison of corruption and helping to cover up a massive $250 million COVID relief fraud scheme. Hawley claimed Ellison took a $10,000 campaign contribution from the corrupt Feeding Our Future officials and failed to hold them accountable, allowing the fraud to continue.

Why it matters

The Feeding Our Future scandal was one of the largest COVID relief fraud cases in the US, with at least 78 defendants charged. Hawley's accusations against Ellison raise serious questions about potential political corruption and the failure to properly investigate and prosecute those involved in the fraud.

The details

During the heated exchange, Hawley pointed at Ellison and said he should be indicted for helping the Feeding Our Future officials 'get investigators off their backs.' Hawley alleged that Ellison financially benefited from his role in protecting the fraudsters, claiming Ellison took a $10,000 campaign contribution from them just 9 days after a meeting. Hawley said the evidence, including recordings, shows Ellison 'helped fraudsters defraud the state of $9B' and challenged Ellison, saying 'You ought to be indicted!'

• The heated exchange took place on Thursday during Ellison's testimony before the Senate Homeland Security Committee.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Senate Homeland Security Committee is expected to further investigate the allegations against Attorney General Ellison and the Feeding Our Future fraud case.