Americast How did a YouTuber stop federal funding to Minnesota?
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Jan 2, 2026 A conservative YouTuber's claims about Somali-run childcare centers in Minnesota have led to the Trump administration freezing federal funding. The podcast dives into the controversy, contrasting these allegations with findings from mainstream media that found little evidence of fraud. It also explores the implications for Minnesota's Somali community and discusses new New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani's ambitious governance promises. Will his approach redefine the Democratic party, and how will he tackle challenges like housing and public trust?
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Payments Frozen After Viral Allegations
- The Trump administration froze Minnesota child-care payments after a viral video alleged Somali-run centers took money without providing care.
- Anthony Zurcher and Justin Webb stress the case mixes real prosecutions with murky social-media claims, complicating truth and politics.
YouTuber's Doorstep Investigations Go Viral
- Nick Shirley, a conservative YouTuber, posted videos claiming Somali-run daycares were empty fronts and drew millions of views and high-profile attention.
- Shirley filmed locked centers, blacked-out windows, and unsuccessful attempts to reach staff, which mainstream outlets later disputed.
Documented COVID-Era Fraud Exists
- Minnesota had documented fraud during COVID, notably Feeding Our Future, with successful prosecutions for stolen funds.
- Justin Webb and Anthony note that those real cases get entangled with new allegations, fueling racial and political tensions.