Trump Sets New AAG Post to Combat 'Fraud'

US Vice President JD Vance has said the Trump administration is setting up a new assistant attorney general position to lead nationwide investigations into alleged fraud.

Speaking to reporters at the White House yesterday, Vance said the role would be responsible for protecting public funds and ensuring accountability.

He explained that the position would carry powers and resources similar to those of a special counsel. However, unlike traditional arrangements, the office would operate directly within the White House and remain under the oversight of President Donald Trump and the vice president. Vance said this structure is rooted in what he described as a strong constitutional basis.

In the US justice system, senior prosecutors typically work under the Justice Department to maintain independence from political leadership. Critics argue the new role could weaken that separation and further erode long-standing safeguards designed to keep legal investigations free from political pressure.

The new assistant attorney general will require confirmation by the US Senate. Vance said Senate Majority Leader John Thune has indicated the confirmation process will move quickly once a nominee is announced.

According to Vance, a candidate has not yet been chosen, but the administration expects to name someone within a week. The appointee would serve through the remainder of Trump’s term in office.

Vance said the first investigations are expected to focus on Minnesota, where the administration claims large-scale fraud involving childcare programs and how state officials addressed the matter.

The issue gained national attention in December after a video circulated online by conservative YouTuber Nick Shirley, alleging wrongdoing at childcare centres run by members of the Somali community.

Minnesota state authorities later dismissed the allegations, stating that inspections found no evidence of irregularities. The situation has intensified political debate and renewed criticism of Trump’s past comments about Somali Americans, with civil rights groups warning that such claims risk fuelling fear and social stigma.