A stunning confrontation unfolded on CNN, as conservative investigator Nick Shirley systematically dismantled the network’s attempt to downplay his explosive allegations of widespread fraud. Shirley’s investigation centers on the Somali daycare system in Minnesota, revealing a potentially massive misuse of public funds.
CNN reporter Whitney Wild initially attempted to frame the situation as already being addressed, pointing to over 80 federal indictments in related cases. She suggested the issue was long-standing and under control, a narrative Shirley immediately challenged with stark, undeniable evidence.
“Why did I show up one day in Minnesota and find daycare after daycare with no children, yet receiving millions of dollars?” Shirley demanded, his voice cutting through Wild’s attempt at deflection. “We uncovered nearly $110 million in fraud in a single day.”
Shirley, known for his meticulous on-the-ground investigations, detailed how his team personally visited multiple facilities, documenting empty buildings billing taxpayers for services never rendered. The evidence painted a clear picture of systemic abuse.
CNN’s response was a remarkably weak attempt at verification, consisting of contacting a handful of the accused daycares. Only one responded, predictably claiming legitimacy – a result that underscored a disturbing lack of journalistic rigor.
The reporter pressed Shirley, questioning his certainty. “Are you 100% sure?” she asked, seemingly clinging to a hope of discrediting his findings. Shirley’s response was unequivocal: “Yeah, I am 100% sure.”
The viral video documenting Shirley’s findings shows a tour of Somali-run daycare centers in Minnesota. State records reveal millions in federal reimbursements for child care and nutrition programs, yet the facilities visited were often locked, abandoned, or showed no evidence of children being present.
Shirley and his supporters believe this is a deliberate exploitation of programs like the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), where operators allegedly bill for nonexistent meals and services. The scale of the alleged fraud is staggering.
This investigation is deeply connected to the 2022 “Feeding Our Future” scandal, where federal prosecutors charged dozens with siphoning over $250 million in pandemic-era funds intended to feed children. The majority of those charged were linked to Somali-American nonprofits.
Prosecutors allege a complex scheme involving fabricated enrollment lists, inflated meal counts, and the laundering of money through shell companies. The scandal exposed a vulnerability in the system, and Shirley’s current investigation suggests the problem may be far more widespread than initially believed.
