A controversy has emerged regarding the new Minnesota state flag, with some observers noting a resemblance to the Somali national flag. A columnist argued this similarity is evident, while a PBS report from January 2024 called the comparison a stretch. The state Democratic Party chairman criticized a GOP lawmaker for spreading what they termed misinformation on social media. This discussion occurs amidst scrutiny of childcare payments to Minnesota, following allegations of fraud, with former President Trump criticizing Governor Walz and linking fraud to individuals of Somali origin.