Federal Inquiry Sparks Over Somali-Run Daycare Allegations
Federal agents in Minnesota are investigating several childcare centers following claims by right-wing YouTuber Nick Shirley. In a viral video, Shirley alleged that Somali-run centers were taking public funds without providing proper care.
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed on X that immigration agents are actively conducting “a massive investigation on childcare and other rampant fraud” in Minneapolis.
This surge in federal scrutiny follows recent increases in immigration enforcement across Minnesota, home to the largest Somali population in the United States, amid President Donald Trump’s statements expressing opposition to Somali immigration.
State Officials Push Back Against Viral Claims
State authorities have challenged Shirley’s claims. Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families Commissioner Tikki Brown stated that all centers mentioned in the video undergo regular inspections. She noted, “While we have questions about some of the methods used in the video, we do take concerns about fraud very seriously.”
News outlets conducted their own review of the facilities and found no evidence of wrongdoing. Almost all the centers are licensed and had been visited by regulators within the past six months. Sweet Angel Daycare, one of the centers highlighted in the viral video, underwent its most recent inspection on December 4.
Two of the centers featured in the video have already shut down. State officials confirmed that follow-up visits occurred this week to verify ongoing compliance.
Ongoing Federal Investigations and Historical Context
FBI Director Kash Patel commented on X that the agency is aware of social media reports and has been investigating Minnesota childcare fraud since the pandemic. He added, “The FBI believes this is just the tip of a very large iceberg. We will continue to follow the money and protect children, and this investigation very much remains ongoing.”
Earlier this year, a federal jury convicted the head of the now-defunct nonprofit Feeding Our Future for a $250 million pandemic aid fraud, one of the largest in U.S. history.
Political Tensions Surround the Investigation
The Minneapolis inquiry forms part of a broader crackdown on immigration and crime under Trump’s administration. Trump has repeatedly expressed hostility toward Somali immigrants, stating they should “go back to where they came from.”
Democratic Governor Tim Walz, whose state is a key hub for the Somali-American community, criticized the approach, saying, “We welcome support in investigating and prosecuting crime. But pulling a PR stunt and indiscriminately targeting immigrants is not a real solution to a problem.”
