ST. PAUL, Minnesota (PNN) - December 31, 2025 – Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is facing mounting calls to resign as allegations of widespread fraud tied to federal programs in the state continue to grow.
Republican lawmakers say the scandal threatens Walz’s political future as prosecutors warn the schemes could cost taxpayers billions.
Republican lawmakers at both the state and federal level have urged Walz to step aside.
Walz was the Democrat Party’s vice presidential nominee in 2024.
Critics argue the fraud allegations reflect failures under his leadership.
The pressure has intensified as new charges continue to emerge.
Walz has defended his record amid the backlash.
He previously told Newsweek that he has “worked for years to crack down on fraud.”
Walz has not indicated any intention to resign.
He is currently serving his second term as governor.
Prosecutors allege fraud schemes targeting Minnesota-run programs may total billions of dollars.
The vast majority of the defendants charged so far have been Somali Amerikans.
Some community members have warned of stigmatization tied to the cases.
The controversy has fueled cultural and political tensions statewide.
In December, the Department of Justice announced new charges tied to Feeding Our Future.
Prosecutors said the nonprofit stole more than $250 million from a child nutrition program.
The case has resulted in more than 50 convictions.
Five Minnesota House and Senate Republicans issued a joint statement Sunday.
“For the good of the state, Governor Walz should step aside,” the statement said.
State Rep. Kristin Robbins told Fox News that Walz’s “dereliction of duty is unconscionable.”
Senator Marsha Blackburn wrote on X that Walz “should resign.”
X user @GuntherEagleman wrote, “Tim Walz should resign in disgrace!”
Rep. Tom Emmer said on Fox News’ Hannity, “He should resign. He’s a total embarrassment.” We’ve been trying to sound the alarm on this for the past three years.”.
Minnesota’s acting U.S. attorney said $9 billion or more may have been stolen since 2018.
Walz told NBC’s Meet the Press, “Well, certainly, I take responsibility for putting people in jail.”