Walz Vows Support for Somali Minnesotans Amid Fraud Allegations

Governor says community will be 'seen, heard, valued, and loved' despite reports of widespread taxpayer fraud.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 11:25pm

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Minnesota Governor Tim Walz vowed that his administration would never abandon the state's Somali community, even as reports have surfaced of widespread fraud and abuse of federal aid programs by members of the Somali-American population. Walz made the comments during a protest in Minneapolis, telling the crowd that the Somali community would be supported for generations to come.

Why it matters

The Somali community in Minnesota has faced increased scrutiny in recent years over allegations of fraud and misuse of taxpayer funds, with the Trump administration promising to crack down on such abuses. Walz's strong show of support for the community comes as he seeks to balance addressing these concerns while also defending a vulnerable population.

The details

According to reports, Somali fraudsters have allegedly bilked American taxpayers out of tens of billions of dollars through scams involving federal aid programs like food assistance, healthcare, and daycare centers. Citizen journalist Nick Shirley has documented instances of daycare centers receiving millions in federal funds while appearing to have no children present.

  • On March 27, 2026, Governor Tim Walz spoke at a 'No Kings' protest in Minneapolis.
  • In December 2025, citizen journalist Nick Shirley released a video showing apparent fraud at several Minnesota daycare centers.

The players

Tim Walz

The Democratic governor of Minnesota who has served since 2019.

Donald Trump

The former U.S. president who has promised to crack down on Somali-related fraud and corruption in states like Minnesota.

Nick Shirley

A citizen journalist who has documented alleged fraud at Minnesota daycare centers receiving federal funds.

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What they’re saying

“I will add a special, a special thank you, and a special acknowledgement that we will never leave the side of our Somali Minnesotans. Here's our pledge to you, our Somali Minnesotans: your great-grandchildren will still be here when that orange clown is in the dustbin of history.”

— Tim Walz, Governor of Minnesota

What’s next

President Trump has promised 'to cut off funds to the Somali-related fraud and corruption' in states like Minnesota, setting up a potential clash with Governor Walz over the issue.

The takeaway

This case highlights the delicate balance between addressing legitimate concerns about fraud and corruption, while also defending vulnerable communities from unfair targeting or discrimination. Governor Walz's strong show of support for the Somali-American population in Minnesota reflects the complex political dynamics at play.