MINNESOTA – Rep. Ilhan Omar is sticking by a law she helped move through Congress, even as federal prosecutors filed charges against six more people in a widening fraud case. Investigators say the scheme siphoned public funds meant to help families in need.

The story first drew national attention through the Feeding Our Future case. In that case, a Minnesota nonprofit was accused of taking about $250 million from a federal child nutrition program. Since then, the federal probe has expanded into other areas, including housing support and autism-related services.

New Charges and Claims of “Fraud Tourists”

On Thursday, federal prosecutors charged six people they say stole more than $11 million. Two of the defendants are men from Philadelphia. Prosecutors say they came to Minnesota after hearing the state’s aid programs were “easy money.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson described the case as “industrial-scale fraud.” He said some suspects spent stolen funds on high-end purchases, such as a semi-truck and international travel, instead of helping the families they said they served.

Ilhan Omar Stands by the MEALS Act

The growing scandal has kept attention on the MEALS Act, a 2020 law co-authored by Omar. The law aimed to help schools and nonprofits feed kids during the COVID-19 shutdowns. It did that by easing certain requirements so meals could get out faster.

Critics say that loosening rules removed key safeguards. They argue that it made it easier for criminals to submit fake claims for millions of meals that were never provided. Omar’s political opponents have pointed to the law as proof that the system didn’t have enough oversight to protect taxpayer money.

Omar defended the program this week. She said it provided needed help during a national emergency. She also said the fraud is “reprehensible,” but the program still kept many children from going hungry.

“A lot of the COVID programs were set up so quickly that the guardrails did not get created,” Omar said.

She added that the goal was to help people during a crisis. She also said she was among the first to urge the U.S. Department of Agriculture to investigate once signs of fraud surfaced.

Governor Walz Pushes Back on Criticism

Gov. Tim Walz has also faced scrutiny. Federal prosecutors have criticized state agencies, saying they failed to catch problems sooner and let losses grow.

Walz rejects claims that his administration did something wrong. He says the state acted as soon as it could. Walz has said Minnesota tried to stop payments to Feeding Our Future in 2021, but a court order slowed the effort. He also said the FBI asked the state not to interfere because agents were running an undercover investigation.

“This infuriating greed and criminal activity is why we took action,” Walz said after the latest round of charges. He said the state has since shut down certain programs and hired outside auditors to identify more “bad actors.”

A Breakdown of the Fraud Scandal

The table below summarizes the investigations as of late 2025:

Tension Grows Between State Leaders and Federal Prosecutors

The relationship between the governor’s office and federal prosecutors has grown more strained. Thompson has suggested that fraud across Minnesota’s social services programs could add up to the billions. Walz has called those numbers “sensationalism.”

Walz says federal officials are making broad claims without giving the state enough evidence to stop certain payments in real time. The conflict has also become a bigger political issue because many of the people charged are part of Minnesota’s Somali-American community. Omar and Walz have both spoken out against broader attacks on that community.

As cases move toward trials in 2026, attention remains on how much money authorities can recover. So far, investigators have found only a small share of the missing funds. Much of it, they say, went to luxury cars, real estate, and investments overseas.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino has announced that he will leave his role in January, closing a powerful chapter of public service rooted in his love for country.

Speaking with reporters at Joint Base Andrews, President Donald Trump praised Bongino, saying, “Dan did a great job.” With a slight grin, the president added, “I think he wants to go back to his show,” a nod to Bongino’s popular media presence that millions have followed for years.

In a heartfelt message on X, Bongino shared his gratitude: “I will be leaving my position with the FBI in January. I want to thank President Trump, AG Bondi, and Director Patel for the opportunity to serve with purpose. Most importantly, I want to thank you, my fellow Americans, for the privilege to serve you. God bless America, and all those who defend Her.”

A Life of Service, Sacrifice, and Strong Conviction

Dan Bongino’s path to the top ranks of the FBI reflects a classic American story built on grit, duty, and courage. He began his career as a New York City police officer, then became a U.S. Secret Service agent, spending years in high-risk roles protecting presidents and key officials.

During his time in the Secret Service, Bongino served in the elite Presidential Protection Division under Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. His work there highlighted his steady character and refusal to back away from responsibility.

After leaving government work, Bongino moved into media and quickly rose as a trusted conservative voice. “The Dan Bongino Show,” his podcast and radio program, climbed into the top ranks nationwide. Listeners tuned in for his blunt commentary, direct style, and tough stance on government abuse and threats to personal freedom.

In February 2025, President Trump asked Dan Bongino to return to government as Deputy Director of the FBI under Director Kash Patel. The choice sent a clear message about a push for change inside the bureau. Bongino placed his booming media career on pause, choosing once again to answer a higher call to serve.

Honor in Office: A Tenure Marked by Reform and Results

During his time as Deputy Director, Bongino built a record that his supporters describe as heroic. Working with Director Kash Patel and Attorney General Pam Bondi, he focused on cleaning up internal problems, redirecting resources to real threats, and pressing for accountability.

One of the strongest examples of his approach came in long-stalled cases. Under his watch, the FBI arrested a suspect in the January 6, 2021, pipe bomb investigation, a case that had frustrated investigators and the public for years. He also pushed forward on key inquiries, including the 2023 White House cocaine incident and the 2022 Supreme Court Dobbs draft leak, signaling his drive for clear answers and public trust.

Bongino also supported major operations against child predators. During his tenure, the FBI arrested hundreds of suspected offenders and helped rescue more than 200 at-risk children in joint actions with other agencies. These efforts highlighted his focus on protecting the most vulnerable and targeting those who cause serious harm.

FBI Director Kash Patel credited Bongino with playing a central role in the bureau’s turnaround, calling him “the best partner I could’ve asked for in helping restore this FBI.” Patel added, “He not only completed his mission, he far exceeded it. Our country is better and safer for it.”

President Trump has echoed that praise. In speeches and interviews, he has pointed to Bongino’s choice to walk away from a lucrative career in media in order to return to public service. During an emotional Fox News segment earlier this year, Bongino spoke about long periods away from his family and the weight of his duties, but said he had no regrets because he did it for the country he loves.

For years, Bongino was known as a fierce critic of government excess and corruption. His move inside the FBI did not soften his beliefs. Instead, it gave him a direct role in applying those principles from within, pushing for change that matched what he had urged from the outside.

Trump’s Public Support: “Dan Did a Great Job”

President Trump’s comments on Bongino’s resignation made the depth of their working relationship clear. Repeating his praise, Trump said, “Dan did a great job,” underscoring Bongino’s impact on law enforcement and national security.

Coming from a former president known for high expectations, that statement carried weight. Trump’s decision to bring Bongino into the FBI leadership was a strong signal at the time, pairing a high-profile conservative voice with a major federal law enforcement role.

Far from being viewed as a loss, Bongino’s exit is being framed by supporters as the closing of a mission that he carried out with success and integrity.

What Comes Next for Dan Bongino?

As January approaches, attention is now turning to what Bongino will do next, and many Americans are watching closely.

President Trump has already hinted at Bongino’s next move: a return to “The Dan Bongino Show.” The audience that followed him before his government service has remained loyal, eager to hear his take on current events, federal power, and personal liberty once again.

People close to Bongino say he feels energized about returning to the microphone. With his inside experience at the FBI, his commentary is expected to be sharper, with deeper insight into how the system works and where it fails.

Bongino has reminded his followers that he once “got paid for opinions” and that “one day I will be back in that space.” That day appears to be close. His podcast was already a major force in conservative media, and many expect it to grow even more with fresh behind-the-scenes knowledge. New projects could include books, expanded shows, or a larger media platform.

Whatever form it takes, his next step will keep him in the public square, speaking to millions who share his values and concerns.

A Patriot’s Legacy and a New Chapter on the Air

Dan Bongino’s story spans city streets, the Secret Service, talk radio, and the FBI’s top floor. He has worn many hats, but each role reflected the same core traits: loyalty, courage, and a clear sense of right and wrong.

His time as FBI Deputy Director left a mark on the bureau and on those who backed his push for reform. From moving stalled investigations forward, to going after child predators, to standing beside senior leaders in tough moments, his work showed both toughness and heart.

As he leaves federal service and heads back to broadcasting, his mission to defend the Constitution and stand up for everyday Americans does not end. It simply returns to a different stage.

For many, Dan Bongino represents the rare public figure who talks about sacrifice, then lives it. Former cop, protector of presidents, reformer inside the justice system, and voice for millions, he closes this chapter with his head held high.

The country owes him thanks for his service at the FBI. Now, as he returns to the airwaves, his supporters are ready to tune in.

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President Trump Delivers Upbeat National Address, Pledges Stronger Future

WASHINGTON, D.C. – President Trump spoke to the country from the White House on Wednesday night, using a prime-time address to highlight his administration’s record over the past 11 months and to sketch out an aggressive agenda for the next several years.

From the Diplomatic Reception Room, he struck a confident, determined tone, saying the United States is on the verge of a new era of prosperity despite what he described as serious problems left behind by the prior administration.

The 25-minute speech from The White House aired live on major television networks at 9 p.m. Eastern Time. It came at a time of shifting approval ratings and heated debate over the direction of the economy. Trump used the moment to argue that his “America First” platform is working, and to preview the priorities he wants to drive in 2026 and beyond.

A Year Trump Calls Historic

Trump opened by looking back at what he cast as sweeping change since his inauguration in January 2025.

“We walked into a mess, open borders, out-of-control inflation, and weakness around the world,” he said. “In just 11 months, we’ve changed course. We have secured the border, lowered energy costs, and brought back American strength.”

He called the drop in illegal border crossings one of his top achievements. He credited mass deportations and stricter enforcement policies for what he described as stopping an “invasion,” and said those steps have boosted security and protected American workers.

On energy, Trump praised lower gas prices and higher domestic output, including more drilling in Alaska. “We are energy dominant again,” he said, drawing a sharp contrast with what he described as the Biden administration’s heavy reliance on foreign oil.

Defending The Economy And Tariff Strategy

Trump devoted a large portion of his remarks to the economy. He strongly defended his tariffs, calling them a key part of bringing manufacturing back to the United States and reviving industrial communities that had been losing jobs for years.

According to the administration, tariff revenue climbed to more than $215 billion in fiscal year 2025. Trump said that money is helping to support infrastructure projects and tax relief measures.

He also rolled out plans for “Trump accounts,” a savings program for children born from 2025 through 2028, and promised bigger tax refunds for families in the coming year. He brushed aside critics who link tariffs to higher consumer prices, labeling those arguments “fake news” and saying any short-term price pressure will give way to long-term growth.

“The best is still ahead,” Trump said. “Our economy is ready for a huge boom. Unemployment is low, paychecks are growing, and we are signing fair trade deals that put America first.”

White House aides said the administration views falling inflation and tougher border control as signature wins, and they predicted more relief from targeted economic and immigration policies moving forward.

Holding A Hard Line On Foreign Policy

On foreign affairs, Trump repeated his pledge to take a hard line with rival governments. He pointed to recent moves against Venezuela, including a blockade of sanctioned oil tankers, saying those steps are designed to squeeze the Maduro regime and reclaim what he called “stolen American assets.”

He praised efforts to reduce conflict in several global flashpoints and credited his leadership for progress in Ukraine and the Middle East.

“America is respected again,” he said. “Our enemies are careful, and our friends know they can count on us.”

Trump hinted at more foreign policy initiatives in 2026, including tighter alliances and sustained pressure on countries he accuses of abusing trade rules or threatening U.S. interests.

Looking Ahead To A “Greatness” Agenda

Turning to the future, Trump said he plans to build on what he called the momentum of 2025. His upcoming agenda includes more tax cuts, rolling back regulations to spur business growth, and new infrastructure projects funded in part by tariff revenue.

He renewed his pledge to protect Social Security and Medicare, and called for expanded school choice along with a fight against what he described as “radical indoctrination” in classrooms.

On the federal bureaucracy, Trump praised the Department of Government Efficiency, run by Elon Musk, for its early work. He said the office has already canceled hundreds of underused federal leases and trimmed costs across the government.

“We are making government serve the people again,” Trump said. “No more waste, no more red tape holding our country back.”

A Closing Appeal For Unity And Hope

Trump ended his address with a hopeful message and a call for unity.

“We have already done so much together, record job growth for minorities, strength and peace abroad, and a fresh sense of pride here at home,” he said. “But this is only the start. America’s golden age is here.”

Reaction to the address quickly split along party lines. Republican leaders praised it as a “roadmap to continued prosperity.” Democrats argued that it glossed over ongoing problems with the cost of living and the effect of tariffs on shoppers and small businesses.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt described the speech as “inspirational” and said it highlighted Trump’s plan to deliver on his promises over the next three years.

With the holidays approaching and the first anniversary of Trump’s second term around the corner, the address served as a reminder of the administration’s far-reaching goals. As the 2026 midterm elections draw closer, Trump’s message made clear that he plans to keep pressing a platform centered on strong borders, economic growth, and a renewed sense of national strength and security.

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