“They Played the Race Card” — Tim Walz Faces Backlash as Judges Release More Accused Somali Fraud Suspects

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is facing mounting political pressure after several judges ordered the release of additional suspects accused in a high-profile fraud case involving members of the state’s Somali community. Critics argue that the legal decisions reflect a broader failure of accountability, while supporters insist the rulings are based strictly on the rule of law.

The controversy intensified after a prominent conservative commentator claimed that defense attorneys “played the race card” to secure the release of the suspects, arguing that claims of discrimination and community targeting influenced judicial decisions. The remarks have fueled a heated debate over race, justice, and political responsibility in Minnesota.

Governor Walz, a Democrat, has so far avoided directly criticizing the courts but acknowledged growing public frustration. “I understand people are angry,” Walz said in a brief statement. “Fraud and abuse of public funds are unacceptable, and those responsible must be held accountable through a fair legal process.”

The case centers on allegations that millions of dollars in public aid were fraudulently obtained through nonprofit organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prosecutors allege that funds intended to feed children were misused for personal enrichment, luxury purchases, and overseas transfers. Several defendants have already been charged, while others remain under investigation.

Recent court rulings allowing some accused individuals to await trial outside of custody have drawn sharp criticism from Republicans and law enforcement advocates. They argue that the releases undermine public trust and increase the risk of suspects fleeing the country.

“This isn’t about race — it’s about accountability,” one state legislator said. “Taxpayer money was stolen, and Minnesotans want to see consequences.”

However, defense attorneys maintain that their clients are being unfairly targeted and emphasize that pretrial detention should not be used as punishment. They argue that the suspects have constitutional rights and that prosecutors failed to meet the legal standard required to justify continued detention.

Civil rights advocates have also weighed in, warning against rhetoric that could stigmatize Minnesota’s Somali community, one of the largest in the United States. Community leaders have urged residents to separate criminal allegations from broader cultural or ethnic identity.

“These charges involve individuals, not an entire community,” one Somali-American advocate said. “We support justice, but we also reject collective blame.”

Governor Walz finds himself politically constrained, with limited authority over judicial decisions and growing demands from both sides. Critics say his administration has not taken a strong enough stance against fraud, while allies argue that respecting judicial independence is essential to democracy.

As the legal process continues, more court hearings are expected in the coming weeks. Prosecutors say they remain confident in their cases and are continuing to pursue additional evidence and potential charges.

The unfolding situation has become a flashpoint in Minnesota politics, highlighting tensions over crime, race, immigration, and government oversight. For Governor Walz, the challenge remains balancing public outrage with legal restraint — all while navigating an issue that shows no signs of fading from the political spotlight.