A viral video by independent journalist Nick Shirley has raised concerns about potential fraud in Minnesota’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). The investigation claims that over $110 million in taxpayer funds may have been paid to inactive daycare centers in a single day of documentation.
Findings from the Investigation
- Shirley visited multiple licensed childcare facilities in Minneapolis during business hours and found many deserted, with no children or playground activity.
- One center, Quality Learning Center, licensed for 99 children, showed no signs of operation. Records indicate it received about $1.9 million in CCAP funds in 2025, part of $4 million over recent years.
- The center’s exterior sign even misspells “learning” as “learing.”
- State records show the facility accumulated 95 violations from 2019 to 2023, yet continued receiving funding.
Public Reactions
- The video has drawn tens of millions of views across platforms.
- Elon Musk called for Governor Tim Walz’s prosecution.
- Rep. Tom Emmer (R-MN) demanded explanations for taxpayer funds going to non-operational centers.
- Vice President JD Vance praised Shirley’s work as strong investigative journalism.
Official Response
- Governor Walz and Minnesota state officials have not publicly addressed the specific allegations.
- The Department of Children, Youth, and Families said oversight is ongoing and encourages fraud reports, but no charges have been filed.
Context and Caution
- The investigation comes amid federal scrutiny of Minnesota social programs, including prior child nutrition fraud cases exceeding $1 billion.
- Authorities emphasize that visual evidence alone does not confirm wrongdoing, and formal investigations are required.
The video has sparked national debate, with supporters calling for accountability and skeptics urging caution until official verification is complete.
