California Gov. Gavin Newsom is responding far more aggressively to allegations of fraud in his state than Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has in Minnesota, where scrutiny over waste and abuse has fueled investigations and political fallout.
Walz has largely addressed the issue through formal statements and policy announcements outlining steps his administration says it has taken to reduce fraud. Newsom, by contrast, has leaned into a more confrontational approach—frequently pushing back on critics online and dismissing claims that California is facing widespread fraud.
The diverging strategies come as Republicans accuse Democratic-led states of ignoring waste and misuse of public funds, while Democrats argue the claims are being amplified for political purposes and to undermine trust in government programs.
A spokesperson for Newsom told Newsweek: “We don’t respond to random made up tweets made by random people. In the actual world where adults govern, Governor Newsom has been cleaning house. Since taking office, he’s blocked over $125 BILLION in fraud, arrested criminal parasites leaching off of taxpayers, and protected taxpayers from the exact kind of scam artists Trump celebrates, excuses, and pardons.”
Why It Matters
Fraud allegations have moved higher on the political agenda following high-profile cases—particularly in Minnesota—prompting federal investigations and intensifying partisan attacks. How state leaders handle public concerns and enforcement efforts may shape voter confidence in government oversight and the integrity of major public programs.
What To Know
Federal authorities first uncovered major welfare fraud in Minnesota in 2022, tied to the Feeding Our Future case—an alleged scheme estimated to have cost taxpayers about $250 million.
Since then, additional allegations have emerged. In mid-December, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson said that $9 billion or more in federal funds allocated to 14 state-run programs since 2018 may have been stolen.
In December, Walz said Minnesota’s generosity had been “taken advantage of by an organized group of fraudsters and criminals,” and he vowed that those responsible “will be caught and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” He also announced the appointment of a director of program integrity, a role meant to strengthen prevention and oversight.
Walz has previously defended his record, saying he has “worked for years to crack down on fraud.” On Monday, he said he would not seek another term, arguing that the time spent protecting his political future would be better used focusing on the state’s response.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has taken aim at California, calling it “more corrupt than Minnesota” and saying his administration has begun investigating the state for fraud.
California Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton claimed the state’s fraud total will likely exceed $250 billion, though he did not provide details. MAGA influencer Benny Johnson also said he had received “over 1,000” tips related to alleged fraud in California.
Newsom—often discussed as a potential Democratic presidential contender in 2028—has answered these claims with sharp, public rebukes and sarcasm. In one post, he wrote: “BREAKING: Same people who ‘found’ $250 BILLION in fake fraud have also confirmed California is home to unicorns, leprechauns, and a permanent cure to chronic erectile dysfunction.”
In another statement distributed to multiple outlets, Newsom’s office attacked Trump directly, saying: “Donald Trump is a deranged, habitual liar whose relationship with reality ended years ago.
“This is not complicated. He spends his days posting whatever garbage his shriveled little brain can cough up, and Fox News dutifully treats it like the Lord’s scripture.”
The office added: “Gavin Newsom runs a state. Donald Trump runs his mouth and little fingers.”
Mark Shanahan, who teaches American politics at the University of Surrey in the U.K., told Newsweek that the contrast reflects different political instincts and ambitions. He said Walz’s approach may read as overly restrained in a combative media environment, while Newsom appears comfortable taking direct hits and returning fire—especially with national politics in mind.
What People Are Saying
President Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social on Tuesday: “California, under Governor Gavin Newscum, is more corrupt than Minnesota, if that’s possible??? The Fraud Investigation of California has begun.”
What Happens Next
Investigations into alleged fraud in both states are expected to continue.
The Trump administration is also planning to freeze $10 billion in welfare funding from five Democratic-led states—including California and Minnesota—over concerns about potential fraud. The other states named are New York, Colorado, and Illinois.
