Racial equality

Minnesota Lt. Gov. and Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Peggy Flanagan is drawing criticism after it emerged she is set to attend a fundraiser hosted by Dr. Nathan Chomilo, the state's Medicaid medical director since January 2020. His tenure has coincided with a massive Medicaid fraud scandal in Minnesota, much of it centered on programs like autism services and Housing Stabilization Services, with an estimated billions in fraudulent payments.

Republicans, including state Rep. Kristin Robbins and the National Republican Senatorial Committee, seized on the connection, arguing it undermines Flanagan's stated commitment to addressing fraud and reflects alignment with the party's progressive wing. Chomilo was not directly responsible for fraud oversight or payment processing, but critics note his senior role should have made him aware of the problems. Flanagan has previously said she is "appalled" by the fraud and pointed to new oversight measures, including an inspector general's office.

The controversy adds pressure to Flanagan's Senate bid against Republican Michele Tafoya, with fraud emerging as a top issue for Minnesota voters ahead of the November election.