Independent journalist Nick Shirley has reported receiving numerous death threats, including alarming warnings directed at his family, after he released a video alleging fraud at daycare centers in Minnesota. During a podcast appearance on December 31, Shirley detailed the harassment he has faced, which includes threats of being “Kirked,” a term referencing the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Shirley’s investigation scrutinized publicly funded daycare centers that reportedly collected substantial state payments while appearing largely empty. The video quickly went viral, leading to significant backlash against the journalist. He claims that one facility alone allegedly received around $4 million in taxpayer funding.
In his podcast discussion with host Patrick Bet-David, Shirley expressed his distress over the threats, stating, “They are saying, like, ‘Kirked — you’re going to be Kirked. You’re going to be Kirked.’ That’s what they’re saying — like, you’re next. You’ll be the next Kirk.” He appeared visibly shaken, particularly regarding the impact these threats have had on his family. “My little sister is getting phone calls. I’m like, why are you guys doing this?” he lamented.
Shirley emphasized that his investigation centers on financial accountability rather than political agendas. “I didn’t make this a right-or-left issue,” he said. “I just showed you guys that fraud was happening.” His comments highlight a commitment to transparency in public funding, despite the intense personal cost he has incurred.
The backlash surrounding Shirley’s work has prompted action from government agencies. In response to the allegations raised in his video, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced on December 30 that it would suspend childcare payments to Minnesota. This move came shortly after Minnesota officials publicly pushed back against Shirley’s claims.
Tikki Brown, Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth and Families, stated during a press conference on December 29 that previous inspections had not uncovered evidence of fraud. “We are aware of a video that’s being circulated that has gained local and national attention about childcare centers in Minnesota,” she noted. “While we have questions about some of the methods that were used in the video, we do take the concerns that the video raises about fraud very seriously.”
As the investigation continues, questions remain about the extent of potential fraud within the Minnesota childcare system. The situation has sparked a broader discussion about accountability and oversight in publicly funded services.
Shirley’s experience underscores the serious risks faced by journalists who expose allegations of financial misconduct. His case serves as a reminder of the challenges that come with demanding transparency and the potential dangers of investigative reporting in politically charged environments.
Fox News Digital has reached out to Shirley for further comment as the story develops.
