Citizen Journalists Push Somali Daycare Fraud Scandal Into National Spotlight
In recent months, a group of citizen journalists has sparked important conversations around public accountability. Their investigations into potential fraud at Somali-operated daycare centers have unveiled troubling patterns of misuse of taxpayer dollars. What began as a simple inquiry in Minnesota has grown into a nationwide movement, catching the attention of mainstream media and political figures.
The movement gained significant momentum with the release of a 42-minute exposé by independent journalist Nick Shirley in late December 2025. In this powerful video, he documented numerous daycare facilities in Minnesota, many owned by Somali nationals, that appeared idle yet continued to draw substantial government funding. Shirley’s dedication to his craft is evident; he meticulously compiled addresses, sifted through grant databases, and visited these centers to engage with their operators.
Shirley’s video quickly gained traction, amassing over 100 million views across social media platforms. His penetrating report captivated audiences, culminating in a viral moment when Cam Higby lightheartedly confronted a daycare operator who abruptly fled from the camera. This dramatic exchange underscored the seriousness of the issues at hand, blending the urgency of investigative journalism with relatable interactions that resonate with the everyday public.
The reach of this citizen journalism has extended well beyond Minnesota. Investigators such as Cam Higby and Jonathan Choe have pursued leads across the country, uncovering a deeper, more systemic issue. Their work illustrates a trend where taxpayer-funded centers exist in name only, drawing significant welfare and Medicaid funding while remaining virtually inactive. One striking example highlighted was a daycare in Kent, Washington, operating from an expensive home, which received a staggering $800,000 in public subsidies despite enrolling just three children.
“Dhagash Childcare has received over $210,000 just this year,” Higby posted on X (formerly Twitter). “People living at the address claim there has never been a daycare there.” Reports of similar fraudulent activities have emerged from cities like Columbus and Philadelphia, where dozens of daycare facilities accumulated over $20 million in funds with little visible operation.
The methods used by these citizen journalists are straightforward yet effective. By accessing state and federal grant databases, they identify potentially fraudulent centers, visit the properties, and document their conditions. Video evidence captures the surprising reactions of local residents, who often have no knowledge of these seemingly vacant daycare operations. This straightforward approach reflects a deep commitment to uncovering the truth, countering years of oversight difficulties and underperformance by existing agencies.
In Minnesota, Shirley’s investigations reveal alarming figures indicating that childcare centers may have collectively accepted over $110 million in taxpayer money, often while appearing vacant. The aftermath of the notorious “Feeding Our Future” scandal, which resulted in a misappropriation of $250 million intended for child nutrition, raises critical questions about the systemic failures that allow such fraud to flourish.
The emergence of these citizen journalists presents a challenge to both traditional media outlets and government oversight bodies. As they fill the void left by these institutions, they act as a de facto watchdog force dedicated to transparency and accountability. The level of scrutiny has attracted the attention of federal law enforcement, leading FBI Director Kash Patel to announce a task force focused on investigating suspected social service fraud linked to these daycare operations. Vice President JD Vance has praised Shirley’s work, highlighting it as a model for investigative journalism.
However, not all are pleased with this scrutiny. Mainstream media has urged caution, viewing Shirley’s approach as potentially harmful to Somali communities. In a segment, a CNN reporter characterized the situation as an attack on the Somali community, reflecting a sensitivity around racially charged allegations. Critics argue this manner of reporting may inadvertently target vulnerable populations.
Despite these concerns, the citizen journalists’ commitment to uncovering broader issues surrounding public funding is noteworthy. Bill Ackman, an influential investor, remarked, “Even assuming there was no fraud, none of this makes sense. If mom and dad don’t work, why the need for child care?” This sentiment resonates, raising crucial questions about welfare policies and government expenditure that are gaining traction in political discussions across the spectrum.
Supporters of these independent investigative efforts praise their ability to shine a light on bureaucratic failures. Commentator Patrick Bet-David suggested that the work done by citizen journalists could eventually render traditional media obsolete, proposing that determination and access to technology may be all that is needed for effective reporting.
The Somali community’s response has been defensive, with advocates warning of the potential for stereotyping. Yet, no Somali-run centers have publicly refuted the specific allegations captured on video. Their silence, coupled with signs indicating “no comment” and barriers to access, only adds to the growing suspicion surrounding these operations.
While Democratic lawmakers have largely remained silent, local officials in several affected cities have begun to expedite audits of the enterprises in question. Behind closed doors, discussions are intensifying within Congress regarding potential regulatory reforms. The push for transparent financial oversight of welfare programs is swiftly becoming a bipartisan concern.
Nick Shirley has proven that an individual with a camera can make a significant impact. His grassroots investigations have made national headlines, tackling issues that have long been left unexamined by the mainstream. With investigations expanding across the nation, the call for accountability continues to resonate. “Keep pushing,” he said in a recent tweet. And for now, that’s exactly what they intend to do.
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