Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is under fire from Republican lawmakers after revelations that his office spent $430,000 in taxpayer funds preparing for a congressional hearing on “sanctuary city” policies.
Invoices show that Walz hired the international law firm K&L Gates to help with preparations for his June testimony before the House Oversight Committee. The committee, controlled by Republicans, examined the actions of blue state governors regarding immigration and sanctuary city policies.
In May alone, Walz’s legal fees reportedly totaled $232,000, with hourly rates averaging more than $500. Overall, from April 10 through the June 12 hearing, the legal contract amounted to $430,000.
The decision sparked sharp criticism from state Republicans, who questioned why Walz sought outside legal counsel rather than relying on state attorneys and public relations staff.
Minnesota Rep. Jim Nash described the spending as excessive, pointing out that Walz had previously served in Congress and should be familiar with such hearings. Nash indicated he would continue investigating the expenses.
Rep. Harry Niska echoed the concerns, stating that the spending resembled public relations consulting more than legitimate legal preparation. He argued that taxpayers were unfairly footing the bill for what he suggested were the governor’s political ambitions.
The controversy intensified as Republicans accused Walz of prioritizing his own image over fiscal responsibility. But Walz’s team pushed back, claiming the real issue was the hearing itself…
