Republican Senate candidates looking to fill Minnesota’s vacant seat have accused Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison of neglecting a significant fraud issue in the state. Michele Tafoya, who seeks to succeed retiring Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.), has been vocal in her criticism, targeting the nearly $10 billion fraud scheme related to daycare, food assistance, and clinics that occurred under their watch.
Tafoya suggested that this scandal might shift Minnesota’s Senate seat to a Republican stronghold for the first time since 2008. In a discussion with Fox News Digital, she noted that residents are profoundly “angry,” emphasizing that “fraud is certainly at the forefront” of current political discourse.
Tafoya, who previously worked as a sportscaster, believes that Walz and Ellison are culpable, pointing out that “look, they’re at the top” and questioning how such a vast sum could change hands without their knowledge. She insisted accountability is essential for the fraud that has impacted many in Minnesota.
Brian Evans, Ellison’s spokesperson, countered that the attorney general’s office is actively investigating fraud across the state. He mentioned their collaboration with the Medicaid Fraud Enforcement Unit, which has achieved over 340 convictions, asserting its effectiveness in tackling fraud.
During a congressional hearing, Walz and Ellison defended their approach to fraud. However, House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) indicated before the hearing that both officials were aware of misconduct but “repeatedly failed to act.” Tafoya remarked that Walz “laughed it off” at a recent committee meeting.
Highlighting past mistakes, Tafoya pointed to incidents at Quality ‘Learning’ Center, reinforcing her belief that if you’re the governor, the responsibility ultimately falls on you.
Tafoya, eyeing a shift to a conservative representation, expressed that Minnesotans are “ready for change” and feeling disillusioned. She connected a recent case of voter fraud involving a noncitizen to the broader fraud scandal and criticized Walz and others for suggesting there is no fraud in Minnesota elections. “Where there’s smoke, there’s fire,” she asserted, questioning claims of a “perfect election.”
While Tafoya has amassed a substantial campaign fund, her primary challenge remains ahead. She aims to emerge as the Republicans’ nominee before facing either Representative Angie Craig (D-Minn.) or Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan in the upcoming general election, whom she accuses of leaning left.
Tafoya, backed by Senator Tim Scott, has yet to secure an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, which could significantly impact her campaign. She stated it’s Trump’s decision to endorse at his own pace but expressed confidence in her funding success and overall campaign potential.
In fundraising, Tafoya has outpaced her Republican rivals, raising over $2 million within the first quarter of this year, leaving her with nearly $1.9 million available. She noted that Craig has raised $2.5 million and retains $4.9 million, while Flanagan trails with $1.4 million raised and $1.1 million on hand.
The Fox News Digital team reached out to Governor Walz for comments but did not receive an immediate response.
