A viral video alleging fraud at Minnesota daycare centers, which garnered significant online traction and praise from political figures, is now facing intense scrutiny. The controversy deepens as Irish journalist Caolan Robertson has come forward with claims that the video's creator, Nick Shirley, once admitted his work was "satire" and not real journalism.
From Ukraine to Minnesota: A Pattern of Doubtful Reporting
The claim from Robertson adds a new layer to the ongoing debate around Shirley's reporting methods. Robertson, who previously interviewed Shirley in Ukraine, alleges that Shirley produced videos suggesting there was no war happening in the country. When confronted in Kyiv, Robertson states Shirley confessed his work was not journalism but satire, causing his reporting narrative to "fall apart."
Robertson supported his allegations by sharing a clip from their past interview. He further revealed that local guides in Kyiv later informed him Shirley was shown bombed locations, including a children's hospital, but deliberately chose not to include them in his videos.
The Viral Minnesota Investigation Under Microscope
Nick Shirley's Minnesota video, posted in mid-December, suggested that several daycare centers were empty while continuing to receive public funds. The clip spread rapidly online and was even retweeted by U.S. Senator JD Vance on December 28. Vance lauded Shirley's work, calling it "far more useful" than the 2024 Pulitzer Prize-winning reporting.
However, Robertson asserts that Shirley employs the same questionable tactic everywhere. "Nick has a very specific talent. He shows up somewhere, films a couple of streets, announces he’s cracked the whole story. No data, no depth. Just vibes," Robertson said. "Then we jump to Minneapolis. It’s the same tactic — drop in, film selectively, inflame, provoke, declare victory, go viral."
On-Ground Reality Contradicts Viral Claims
One of the centers featured in Shirley's video was the ABC Learning Center in Minneapolis. Shirley's footage implied the facility was deserted. Contrary to this, when CBS News visited the same center later in December, their reporters found more than a dozen children inside, actively engaged in learning, along with several staff members.
Director Ahmed Hasan told CBS that the children were working on math and basic language skills. His wife, Umi Hasan, who helps manage the center, expressed her belief that the viral video was politically motivated. "We pay our taxes. We do whatever we can to be a law-abiding citizen. When one Somali does something wrong, we all get collective punishment," she stated, highlighting the negative impact on the community.
The fallout from the video was immediate and stressful. Ahmed Hasan added that the center received a constant stream of phone calls from people outside Minnesota after the video went viral, causing undue anxiety for both staff and families.
Broader Implications and Online Frenzy
These fresh allegations from Caolan Robertson emerge as Shirley's fraud claims continue to circulate online, attracting attention from high-profile individuals. The situation raises critical questions about accountability in viral investigative content and the fine line between activism, satire, and factual journalism. The episode underscores how selective reporting can have real-world consequences, affecting innocent communities and institutions.
