ST. PAUL, Minnesota — A Republican-led House Oversight Committee investigation alleges that Minnesota state officials retaliated against employees who raised concerns about fraud within taxpayer-funded social service programs, including by using outside investigators, monitoring whistleblowers, and discouraging internal reporting.
The 205-page majority staff report, released Monday, focuses on the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) under Gov. Tim Walz’s administration. Investigators interviewed current and former agency officials and concluded that employees who reported suspected fraud were subjected to intimidation, investigations, and professional consequences.
The report cites testimony from former interim DHS Commissioner Shireen Gandhi, who acknowledged that agency leadership regularly met with employees who had reported fraud concerns. Investigators also examined allegations that outside personnel were brought in to conduct internal investigations involving whistleblowers.
Among the more serious claims, some employees alleged that investigators photographed their homes and vehicles, monitored electronic communications, and gathered information about family members after fraud complaints were filed. The report also references allegations that a DHS manager discussed using military connections to identify the locations of employees critical of department leadership.
Committee Chairman James Comer (R-KY) said the investigation revealed significant failures in oversight and fraud prevention. Republicans argue that state leaders ignored warnings about fraud risks involving programs that later became the focus of criminal investigations, including the Feeding Our Future case.
Walz and Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison have previously disputed allegations that state officials knowingly allowed fraud to continue. During earlier congressional testimony, Walz said employee intimidation would be inappropriate if it occurred and stated he was unaware of some whistleblower claims.
Sources:
• Washington Examiner – MBFC Rating
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