Michele Tafoya presses Peggy Flanagan on Minnesota fraud in Senate debate

Republican Senate candidate Michele Tafoya pressed Democratic lieutenant governor Peggy Flanagan about the state’s alleged $9 billion fraud scandal during the only scheduled debate for the Minnesota Senate race on Oct. 16, 2026 in St. Paul.

The exchange put the fraud investigations, which have dominated recent state politics, at the forefront of voters’ concerns, highlighting how program abuses could shape the November election.

When asked whether she bore responsibility for the missing taxpayer money, Flanagan replied, “The governor’s been very clear that the buck stops with him. He was the one who had oversight here,” before noting her own portfolio that includes school meals and family‑leave programs.

Tafoya countered, saying, “Listen, I am going to Washington to be an equal‑opportunity pain in the ass to any corrupt, career politician,” and added, “Only one of us let $9 billion walk out the door to fraud.” She also referenced the nonprofit Feeding Our Future, which prosecutors say siphoned roughly $250 million in federal funds meant for child nutrition.

Former U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson warned in December 2025 that suspected fraud across state programs could total as much as $9 billion since 2018, encompassing Medicaid, SNAP and other aid. The debate also touched on taxes, immigration and foreign policy, but the fraud narrative eclipsed other issues as Flanagan’s lead in the polls narrowed to 2.6 points, according to RealClearPolitics.

Both candidates said the upcoming weeks will focus on voter outreach and detailed plans for oversight, with Tafoya promising tougher penalties and an independent inspector‑general office, while Flanagan pledged to support increased penalties and faster action on future scandals.