Minnesota GOP calls for Gov. Walz resignation over Medicaid fraud

MN fraud: More than half of $18B spent on Medicaid programs could be fraud, feds say

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson said at a press conference about fraud in Minnesota on Thursday that a "staggering" amount of money has been lost to fraud in Minnesota state services, giving the example of the 14 Medicaid programs, saying more than half of the $18 billion spent on these could be fraud.

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - A group of Minnesota House and Senate Republicans is calling for Gov. Tim Walz to resign amid allegations of significant Medicaid fraud during his administration.

Republicans demand accountability 

What we know:

Earlier this month, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson suggested it was possible that as much as half or more of $18 billion paid through 14 Medicaid waiver programs could be fraudulent. Minnesota State Senators Bill Lieske and Nathan Wesenberg, along with State Representatives Marj Fogelman, Drew Roach, and Mike Wiener, have urged Gov. Walz to step down.

The legislators referenced Article 8, Section 6 of the Minnesota Constitution, which mentions serious malfeasance or nonfeasance as grounds for recalling officials.

They clarified that they are not initiating a recall, but believe the situation warrants resignation. A joint statement from the legislators emphasized that the call for resignation is not politically motivated but is based on the need for accountability. They expressed concerns over the persistent fraud and lack of action from Gov. Walz, stating that Minnesotans deserve better leadership. 

Local perspective:

The legislators noted that constituents frequently raise concerns about the Medicaid fraud issue, making it a top priority for many. They stressed the importance of addressing these concerns and restoring trust in the state's leadership.

Gov. Walz responds

What they're saying:

The Office of Gov. Walz issued a statement Monday in response.

"The Governor has worked for years to crack down on fraud and asked the state legislature for more authority to take aggressive action. 

He has strengthened oversight – including launching investigations into these specific facilities, one of which was already closed. He has hired an outside firm to audit payments to high-risk programs, shut down the Housing Stabilization Services program entirely, announced a new statewide program integrity director, and supported criminal prosecutions."