Critics blame local Minnesota media's weak coverage of a massive fraud scandal on fears of appearing racist, according to recent reports amid escalating federal investigations.
Federal prosecutors announced last week that fraud across various state social services programs—including child nutrition (e.g., Feeding Our Future), autism therapy, housing stabilization, and Medicaid—could total up to $9 billion, with over 90 individuals charged and billions in taxpayer funds allegedly stolen since the late 2010s. Most defendants are tied to Minnesota's large Somali-American community.
Conservative commentators and outlets, including Fox News and Townhall, argue that local media—particularly the Minnesota Star Tribune—provided delayed or inadequate coverage for years. Townhall columnist Dustin Grage told Fox News Digital that conservative voices in newsrooms faced roadblocks, with stories allegedly suppressed due to concerns like, "We can’t run that because we’re going to be accused of being racist."
Similar claims appear in reports from the New York Post and others, suggesting this hesitation allowed the fraud to persist unchecked. The narrative has intensified with national attention, including from President Trump, who has criticized the scandal and linked it to state leadership.
The Minnesota Star Tribune has defended its reporting, noting extensive coverage of the issue—including hundreds of stories—and emphasized that fraud allegations must not stereotype the entire Somali-American community.
Mainstream sources like The New York Times and CBS News have detailed the scandal without focusing primarily on media bias or racism fears as key factors, instead highlighting systemic oversight failures and political dynamics. Some progressive voices argue that broad accusations risk fueling division.