Story perspectives

Hawley Accuses Ellison of Fraud in Heated Hearing

2/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) confronted Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison at a Senate hearing.
Hawley accused Ellison of taking campaign donations from people linked to Feeding Our Future.
He alleged Ellison helped fraudsters steal $250 million from taxpayers and called for resignation.
Ellison denied the charges, said he acted against fraud, and criticized Hawley for misrepresentation.
Hearing highlighted divisions over Minnesota's handling of fraud and public safety amid ICE protests.

History

Historical Context

The Feeding Our Future fraud case, uncovered in 2021, involved a $250 million scheme led by Aimee Bock, who falsely claimed to provide meals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Investigations revealed that only about 3% of the funds were used for food. This scandal, which implicated many in Minnesota's Somali community, highlighted significant issues of accountability and transparency in public funding, echoing past controversies over government oversight.

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Story summary

Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) confronted Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison at a Senate hearing.
Hawley accused Ellison of taking campaign donations from people linked to Feeding Our Future.
He alleged Ellison helped fraudsters steal $250 million from taxpayers and called for resignation.
Ellison denied the charges, said he acted against fraud, and criticized Hawley for misrepresentation.
Hearing highlighted divisions over Minnesota's handling of fraud and public safety amid ICE protests.

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