Walz administration faces criticism following multiple audit reports on Minnesota state agencies

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A series of audits targeting state agencies in Minnesota has raised concerns about oversight failures under Governor Tim Walz’s administration. The audits, led by Minnesota’s Office of the Legislative Auditor, pointed to issues in several departments, leading to criticism that Walz is not holding his appointees accountable.

Judy Randall, head of the Office of the Legislative Auditor, highlighted that no agency employee or leader has been disciplined following the reports. These findings have sparked backlash, especially from GOP leaders. Minnesota House GOP leader Lisa Demuth claimed that the governor is ultimately responsible for ongoing issues, particularly within departments like Labor, Industry, and Revenue.

One audit from June revealed that 40% of recipients of COVID-19 frontline worker bonuses may not have been eligible, while another audit implicated the Department of Education in failing to oversee federal funds intended for child nutrition programs. The latter case involved a large pandemic fraud scheme, with at least 70 individuals facing federal charges.

Despite criticism, Governor Walz defended his administration’s actions, stating that many of the auditor's recommendations have been implemented and that no state employee has been implicated in illegal activity. However, GOP leaders argue that the administration has not adequately addressed transparency or accountability within the agencies.