White House Press Secretary Raises Concerns Over Minnesota Fraud Allegations
On Wednesday, White House press secretary Caroline Levitt expressed concerns regarding growing allegations of fraud in Minnesota under Governor Tim Walz’s administration. She warned that actions would be taken, stating, “people are going to be handcuffed.”
Levitt reiterated President Trump’s stance, suggesting that Walz is responsible for the alleged fraud occurring during his governance. “President Trump is not going to leave Governor Walz alone,” she mentioned during an interview on Fox & Friends.
The Trump administration has reportedly increased federal funding for Minnesota, which is now under investigation by various agencies relating to these fraud claims. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is actively participating in surveys at locations suspected of fraudulent activities, as emphasized by ICE Director Todd Lyons on the Fox News Channel recently.
Levitt described the situation as a “top priority” for the administration, outlining ongoing efforts by the Department of Justice to execute search warrants and subpoenas. Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security is conducting door-to-door investigations in communities linked to the allegations.
“We are also not afraid to use denaturalization,” Levitt stated, pointing out that this is a viable method available to the administration. She emphasized that it has been used in the past.
As part of the fallout, President Trump has halted millions of dollars in Small Business Administration (SBA) aid to Minnesota, attributing the cause to Walz’s policies that allegedly foster “endemic” fraud.
Other federal departments, including Health and Human Services, Agriculture, and Labor, are also involved in the investigation. One has ceased child care funding until further clarity is achieved, another is looking into unemployment insurance issues, while a third has requested the names of all SNAP recipients from Walz.
Levitt stressed that the government is diligently working to uncover the truth behind these allegations. Governor Walz has come under scrutiny but has publicly recognized the fraud issue and has committed to addressing it. He has acknowledged responsibility for resolution, stating it’s “on my radar.”
Walz has initiated a third-party audit of Medicaid claims via the Minnesota Department of Human Services and temporarily suspended certain payments during the audit process, as reported by a local affiliate.
He has mentioned that restoring public trust is essential for effectively delivering services. “If you attempt to defraud public programs and take tax dollars from those in need, you will be stopped and held accountable,” Walz asserted.
