Minnesota Governor Tim Walz responded on X, asserting that while fraud is a serious issue the state has been addressing for years, the administration's action is a politically motivated attempt to defund programs that benefit Minnesotans. "He's politicizing the issue to defund programs that help Minnesotans," Walz said.

The specific child care funds being frozen are intended for the state's Child Care Assistance Program, which provides subsidies to low-income families to help them afford child care while they work or attend school. The Trump administration's move raises concerns about the potential impact on these families and the availability of affordable child care in the state.

State Senator Michelle Benson addressed the issue at a news conference on April 10, 2019, at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul, following the release of a report by the state's legislative auditor on combatting fraud in Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program. The report highlighted vulnerabilities in the program and made recommendations for strengthening oversight and preventing fraud.

The administration's demand for an audit suggests a desire to thoroughly investigate the extent of fraud within the program and identify areas for improvement. It remains unclear how long the freeze on funds will remain in effect and what specific steps Minnesota must take to regain access to the funding. The situation is developing, and further details are expected as the audit progresses and discussions between the state and federal government continue.