Ilhan Omar Denies Fraud Accusations Amid Investigation Claims

Minnesota Democrat Ilhan Omar refuted allegations on Wednesday that she had knowledge of a large-scale fraud operation. This denial followed claims by the Vice President that the Department of Justice (DOJ) was investigating her involvement.

Omar issued a statement to Newsweek, responding to accusations from the alleged architect of a $250 million meals fraud, who claimed Omar was complicit. These allegations add to ongoing assertions by some within the Trump administration, suggesting the Representative committed various frauds, including immigration-related ones.

“Any claim that I had knowledge of this scheme is flat-out false,” Omar stated in her message shared with Newsweek. “The moment this fraud came to light, I immediately sent a letter to the USDA Secretary demanding answers and accountability. As I stated from the beginning, stealing millions of dollars under the guise of feeding hungry children to bankroll lavish lifestyles and extravagant expenses is reprehensible.”

Newsweek contacted the DOJ for additional comments on Wednesday afternoon via email.

Accusations Against Omar: Details

Aimee Bock, the founder of the nonprofit Feeding Our Future, who was convicted of conspiracy, bribery, and wire fraud in March 2025, implicated Omar during a recent jail interview. Bock claimed that Omar participated in a scam where restaurant owners filed fake or inflated claims during the pandemic, embezzling millions in child nutrition funds.

Bock expressed skepticism, stating in a video interview with The New York Post, “I struggle to believe that she wouldn’t have known.” She further insisted she unknowingly participated in the fraud and made attempts to alert officials.

How the MEALS Act is Linked to Omar’s Accusations

Omar introduced the MEALS Act in March 2020, enabling the U.S. Department of Agriculture to issue waivers for school meal requirements during payments. Bock alleged Omar intervened when waivers expired, perpetuating the fraud. Omar consistently denied these allegations.

“The MEALS Act was signed into law by President Trump and passed with bipartisan support as part of a broader legislative package,” Omar explained in her statement. “Trump’s USDA Secretary set the regulatory framework during the rollout of the program.”

She added, “I’m grateful that Aimee Bock and everyone involved in this abhorrent scheme are being held accountable for defrauding taxpayers and betraying vulnerable children.”

Minnesota Fraud Overview

Minnesota state representatives released a report criticizing Governor Tim Walz’s administration for creating conditions conducive to widespread fraud, allowing criminals to siphon billions in taxpayer dollars. The report also faulted Omar for outcomes associated with the MEALS Act.

Initiated by the Biden administration in 2022, a federal investigation into the alleged fraud resulted in at least 57 convictions.

Vance and Trump Criticize Omar

The Minnesota fraud case and accusations against Omar exacerbated claims made by prominent Republicans, including President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. Omar previously faced, and denied, allegations of committing immigration fraud, notably acquiescing in marriage with her brother. No substantiated evidence has verified these charges.

Trump has urged for Omar to be stripped of her citizenship and deported, while efforts to expel members not born in the U.S. are also underway in Congress. On Tuesday, Vance reiterated that the DOJ is examining Omar, reiterating immigration fraud claims.

“We’re going to investigate it. We’re going to take a look at it. If we think there’s a crime, we’re going to prosecute that crime. And that’s something the Department of Justice is looking at right now,” Vance stated at a White House press conference.

Next Steps

An official DOJ investigation is pending. Bock awaits sentencing, with prosecutors aiming for a 100-year incarceration.

Prior to sentencing, Bock emailed Newsweek, stating, “I am not setting any expectations as far as a number goes. I have spent the day reflecting with friends/family and praying for strength and peace for all of us. I am putting this in God’s hands.”