Rep. Nick Langworthy Demands Federal Probe into Alleged Minnesota Social Services Fraud

Rep. Nick Langworthy, R-N.Y., has called for a sweeping federal investigation into alleged fraud tied to Minnesota social services programs in remarks on Tuesday, stating that “billions of dollars” may have been stolen and warning the case exposes critical gaps in oversight when federal funds flow through state agencies.

As a member of the House Oversight Committee, Langworthy described the situation as “really scares the hell” out of him and warned similar schemes could emerge elsewhere. He pointed to Minnesota as a test case for what he termed breakdowns in accountability, urging Congress to “get to the bottom” of the misconduct. Langworthy noted that the committee has scheduled a hearing next week and insisted Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz should appear in Washington on Feb. 10.

The Republican lawmaker argued the alleged fraud extends beyond child care programs, suggesting investigators examine a broader range of state-administered initiatives. He cited reports of potentially fraudulent healthcare and home care claims, describing the allegations as resembling “organized crime” operating in plain sight. Langworthy linked the controversy to political incentives, accusing Democratic leaders of prioritizing rapid spending over safeguards.

He warned that state governments sometimes “shovel the money out the door” without addressing tough questions, creating environments where federal funds could be abused. His comments follow a surge in attention driven by social media content alleging large-scale misuse of child care provider funds in Minnesota. However, Minnesota officials and advocates have disputed broad characterizations of wrongdoing, with reporting noting insufficient evidence for some online claims.

Langworthy separately expanded his critique to New York, California, and Michigan as states warranting closer scrutiny due to high levels of government spending. He argued large immigrant populations can become targets for exploitation, citing Minnesota’s Somali community as a focal point in the allegations. Langworthy urged Congress to pursue prosecutions if investigators confirm crimes and warned elected officials who ignored warning signs should face consequences.

In later remarks, Langworthy criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, arguing his platform could accelerate job and investment exodus while advocating for an administrative rather than “social engineering” role for mayors. He also criticized Gov. Kathy Hochul, suggesting higher taxes might push affluent residents and businesses to relocate to lower-tax states, leaving New Yorkers to bear increased burdens.