If you defraud the government to gain entry into the country, you go back, GOP lawmaker warns

Key Concepts

• Denaturalization: The revocation of citizenship, specifically for individuals who obtained it through fraud.
• Fraudulent Entry: Obtaining entry into the U.S. through deceptive means, including false claims or misrepresentation.
• Marriage Fraud: Obtaining immigration benefits through a sham marriage.
• Symbolic Gangs: Organized criminal groups, particularly a concern in the Twin Cities area.
• Pandemic Fraud: Fraudulent claims made during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly related to childcare assistance programs.
• Voter Verification/Vouching: The practice of allowing registered voters to vouch for the eligibility of other voters.
• Whistleblower Intimidation: Actions taken to discourage individuals from reporting illegal or unethical activities.

Investigation into Fraud and Potential Denaturalization in Minnesota

This discussion centers on allegations of widespread fraud in Minnesota, encompassing immigration, government assistance programs, and potentially, voting practices. Congressman Tom Emmer outlines a multi-faceted investigation, focusing on potential denaturalization of individuals who fraudulently obtained U.S. citizenship and accountability for alleged mismanagement and corruption within the state government.

Immigration Fraud and Denaturalization

Congressman Emmer asserts that individuals who defrauded the U.S. government to gain entry into the country should be denaturalized and deported, regardless of their current citizenship status. He specifically cites instances of marriage fraud as grounds for denaturalization. He states, “If you defrauded the government, you go back.” He acknowledges that current law may require adjustments to address naturalized citizens who committed fraud after gaining citizenship, stating, “If you came to this country and gained his citizenship and then you committed fraud and you been convicted of it, an adjustment to the laws should be treated just the same way as someone who defrauded the country to gain entry in the first place.”

The conversation specifically references Representative Ilhan Omar, suggesting she should be investigated, citing a significant increase in her reported net worth from $65,000 to $30 million in a short period. Emmer states, “Omar needs to be investigated just as strongly…There is corruption here. It smells to high heaven.” He clarifies that this applies to anyone convicted of a crime, regardless of their position.

Minnesota Childcare Fraud – A $9 Billion Problem

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on alleged fraud within Minnesota’s childcare assistance programs, particularly during the pandemic. Assistant Secretary of HHS stated, “Any dollars stolen by fraudsters is stolen from US children.” The estimated scale of the fraud is staggering, potentially reaching $9 billion. Previously, Minnesota experienced a $250 million pandemic fraud case, resulting in charges against 86 individuals, with 90% identified as members of the Somali community and 60 convictions secured.

However, Emmer criticizes the lack of accountability for those responsible for overseeing the funds. He points to a pattern of suppressed investigations, beginning with former Attorney General Lori Swanson’s investigation into daycare fraud in 2017-2018, which was halted after Keith Ellison became Attorney General. Ellison allegedly issued a directive to cease investigations into childcare and autism centers unless he personally approved them, and he reportedly approved none. Further, an audio recording allegedly exists of Ellison meeting with potential fraudsters and suggesting contributions could influence the outcome of investigations. Whistleblowers within the Minnesota Social Security system reportedly faced intimidation when bringing forward evidence of fraud. Emmer emphasizes the need for subpoenas to compel testimony from Ellison and Governor Tim Walz.

Voting Irregularities and Records Requests

The discussion also raises concerns about potential voting fraud in Minnesota, specifically regarding the state’s policy allowing registered voters to vouch for up to eight other voters. Emmer expresses concern that this practice could facilitate fraudulent voter registration. He states that the Department of Justice, under Pam Bondi, requested Minnesota’s voting records from the last several elections to investigate potential irregularities. The Minnesota Secretary of State has refused to comply with this request, forcing the Trump administration to pursue legal action. Emmer argues that refusing to provide the records suggests something is being concealed: “If you have nothing to hide you would turn those things over.”

Logical Connections and Timeline

The conversation establishes a clear connection between the alleged immigration fraud, the childcare fraud, and potential voting irregularities, suggesting a pattern of systemic issues within Minnesota’s government. The timeline presented highlights a deliberate effort to suppress investigations into fraud, starting with the cessation of investigations under Attorney General Ellison and potentially extending to the current refusal to provide voting records. The discussion moves from broad allegations of fraud to specific examples, such as the case of Representative Omar and the $9 billion childcare fraud, providing concrete details to support the claims.

Data and Statistics

• Estimated Childcare Fraud: Up to $9 billion.
• Previous Pandemic Fraud Case: $250 million.
• Individuals Charged in Previous Case: 86.
• Percentage from Somali Community: 90%.
• Convictions Secured: 60.
• Representative Omar’s Net Worth Increase: From $65,000 to $30 million in a few years.
• Voter Vouching Limit: One registered voter can vouch for up to eight others.

Conclusion

The discussion paints a picture of systemic fraud and potential corruption within Minnesota, demanding thorough investigation and accountability. Congressman Emmer advocates for aggressive measures, including denaturalization for those who fraudulently obtained citizenship, prosecution of individuals involved in the childcare fraud, and a comprehensive review of voting practices. The core argument is that those who exploit the generosity of the U.S. system should be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law, and that transparency and cooperation with federal investigations are crucial to restoring public trust.