In December 2025, independent journalist Nick Shirley released a hard-hitting 42-minute video that has turned the spotlight on a significant scandal involving daycare centers in Minnesota. The video exposes what Shirley described as widespread fraud, particularly among facilities operated by the Somali immigrant community. With over 45 million views and considerable engagement on the social media platform X, the footage has sparked a national conversation about the management of taxpayer-funded programs.
Shirley’s video highlights visits to various childcare centers that appear alarmingly inactive despite receiving millions from public coffers. For instance, “The Quality Learning Center” featured a misspelled sign and locked doors, prompting a warning from a woman inside to avoid opening it. This alarming scene raises immediate questions about the operations of such facilities allegedly benefiting from taxpayer funds.
Federal prosecutors recognize Minnesota as a primary location for intensive fraud schemes involving fake nonprofits and illegitimate businesses. Investigators estimate that more than $1 billion has been embezzled through a convoluted network targeting the state’s social services. To date, authorities have charged 92 individuals, with convictions for 59. “The magnitude cannot be overstated… It’s staggering, industrial-scale fraud,” remarked First Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson, underscoring the extent of the problem.
Shirley’s work builds on earlier reports that identified fraudulent claims in various areas, including housing and food aid. The daycare centers featured in his investigation claimed a significant number of enrolled children, yet they operated with almost no visible activity or staff. One center astonishingly received $1.9 million while failing to accurately spell “learning” in its signage. In another instance, operators openly admitted, “No kids ever here.” These shocking realizations point to a broader crisis in oversight.
Using public funding databases, state licensing records, and confrontational journalism techniques, Shirley’s team asserts that over $110 million in suspected fraud was documented in just one day. He stated plainly, “We the people simply work too hard and pay too much in taxes to allow this to happen. They must be held accountable.” This sentiment resonates with those who view government mismanagement and fraud as a betrayal of public trust.
Among the eye-opening findings, Shirley discovered a Minneapolis building associated with 14 Somali-affiliated “healthcare” companies, none of which seemed to provide any legitimate services, despite allegedly billing millions to government programs. This hints at a systemic issue, revealing a network designed for exploitation rather than assistance.
Criticism regarding the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) has grown, as they may have been negligent in their oversight responsibilities. State records show that “The Quality Learning Center” had accumulated up to 95 safety and administrative violations over several years. Yet, DHS has been unable or unwilling to act decisively, with leadership admitting a lack of resources to adequately conduct necessary site visits.
The political implications are significant. Prominent figures, including GOP Majority Whip Tom Emmer, have publicly challenged the governor’s response to the video, using Shirley’s findings to spotlight the failures of Minnesota’s current leadership. Former President Donald Trump has also weighed in, framing the issue as part of a larger narrative on immigration and welfare fraud, further igniting partisan tensions.
Shirley’s exposé has rekindled conversations about welfare policy and accountability in government spending. However, the reaction from mainstream media outlets has been notably muted. CNN and MSNBC, in particular, have largely chosen to turn a blind eye to the extensive fraud uncovered, raising questions about media responsibility in reporting critical issues impacting the public.
In addition, local law enforcement’s actions have come under fire. Instances have been recorded where police were called to remove Shirley rather than investigate the serious allegations he raised. This suggests a troubling complacency among officials who should be prioritizing accountability and transparency.
Despite these tensions, Shirley’s pursuit of truth continues. He has received praise from various quarters, but he also faces risks for challenging what many perceive as deeply entrenched fraud networks. Some commentators warn that he may be placing himself in jeopardy by standing against organized interests potentially protected by political affiliations.
As this scandal continues to unfold, it has raised pivotal questions about the efficacy of oversight in taxpayer-funded programs. Auditing practices, resource allocation, and the community’s trust in public officials are all in the spotlight. The stark reality remains: it has taken an independent journalist to bring to light systemic issues that have long gone unnoticed by state auditors and major media organizations. Public sentiment is now driven by a demand for greater accountability, as the implications of this fraud reach far beyond Minnesota, signifying a national issue that warrants serious attention and reform.
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