President Donald Trump sharply criticized Minnesota Governor Tim Walz in remarks that are drawing national attention, warning that alleged fraud tied to Minnesota’s Somali-focused welfare and assistance programs could be far larger than previously reported.
Speaking about ongoing investigations and reports of misuse of taxpayer funds, President Trump accused state leadership of failing to stop what he described as systemic abuse. He cited figures that have circulated in recent fraud cases and audits, saying estimates already identified run into the tens of billions of dollars, with the potential total even higher as investigators continue to dig.
Trump placed direct blame on Gov. Walz and Minnesota Democrats, arguing that lax oversight, political favoritism, and a refusal to act on warning signs allowed the situation to spiral. He said only a portion of the alleged fraud has been uncovered so far and claimed the full scope may not yet be known.
The president framed the issue as part of a broader pattern he says has plagued Democrat-run states, where enforcement is weak and accountability is avoided for political reasons. Trump reiterated that his administration is committed to aggressive audits, prosecutions, and reforms to protect taxpayers and ensure public assistance programs serve eligible Americans—not fraud networks.
Minnesota officials have pushed back on Trump’s claims in the past, while investigations and prosecutions related to welfare and program fraud in the state are still ongoing. Trump, however, vowed that his administration will continue pressing for transparency and consequences, calling the matter a test of basic government responsibility and respect for American taxpayers.
