A sweeping fraud investigation is closing in on Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, with the U.S. Treasury Department now directly involved. Secretary Scott Bessent issued a stark warning: Walz will not be able to evade scrutiny regarding the massive financial irregularities that occurred during his time in office.
The investigation stems from explosive reporting by independent journalist Nick Shirley, who uncovered a staggering pattern of fraud within Somali-owned daycare centers across the state. Shirley’s meticulous work revealed over $110 million in fraudulent activity identified in a single day – a figure that continues to grow.
Secretary Bessent announced on national television that the Treasury will leverage the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) system to trace the flow of funds and expose the full extent of the scandal. FinCEN, a critical government body, is designed to combat money laundering, terrorism financing, and other illicit financial activities.
The planned location for an interview with Bessent – the Minnesota State Capitol – was abruptly changed. When questioned about this, Bessent delivered a scathing rebuke of Governor Walz, stating plainly, “He is a coward.”
Bessent explained that Walz refused to guarantee the Secretary of the United States would receive adequate police protection within the Capitol building. This refusal, according to Bessent, speaks volumes about Walz’s fear of what the investigation will uncover. He emphasized that the investigation will proceed regardless of location.
Bessent extended a pointed invitation to Walz, suggesting he answer questions at the Treasury Department, where his safety could be assured – though he hinted at potential consequences depending on the investigation’s findings. He suggested Walz might only ever see the Oval Office from that vantage point.
The Secretary underscored the vital role of independent journalism in bringing this story to light, lamenting the decline of traditional media’s investigative capacity. He praised citizen journalists for stepping up to fill the void and holding power accountable.
The fallout extends beyond public accusations. Representative Anna Paulina Luna recently sent formal requests to the Attorney General, urging investigations and potential prosecution of both Governor Walz and Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison.
The scale of the alleged fraud and the escalating scrutiny suggest a deepening crisis for the Walz administration, with potentially far-reaching consequences for Minnesota’s political landscape.
