Here’s what to know about a viral YouTube video about fraud in Minnesota

Tuesday, December 30, 2025 -A 42-minute YouTube video released over the weekend by independent content creator Nick Shirley has exploded across social media, claiming widespread fraud tied to government-funded child care and social service programs in Minnesota. 

The video, titled “I Investigated Minnesota’s Billion Dollar Fraud Scandal,” has been viewed by millions and rapidly circulated on platforms like YouTube and X, spotlighting facilities that appear empty despite receiving significant public funds.

State and federal authorities have responded quickly, with the FBI and Homeland Security directing resources to review potential fraud in childcare programs that have already drawn scrutiny amid a broader state investigation into misused aid funds. 

However, Minnesota officials, including the Department of Children, Youth and Families, say previous unannounced inspections found children present at the centers and no confirmed evidence of fraud tied to the facilities featured in the video — prompting new follow-up checks to verify the claims.

The controversy has ignited political firestorms, with high-profile figures publicly debating the video’s implications and pressuring state leadership. Governor Tim Walz has pushed back against assertions that his administration is complicit in fraud, emphasizing ongoing efforts to tighten oversight, while national political figures amplified the video’s message online. 

Meanwhile, managers of the daycare centers shown have denied wrongdoing, warning that premature conclusions could unjustly harm communities and small businesses amid an active and evolving investigation.