Texas Congressman Urges California Governor to Audit Health Benefits for Undocumented Migrants

Texas Congressman Urges California Governor to Audit Health Benefits for Undocumented Migrants

Texas Congressman Wesley Hunt has publicly criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom for extending health benefits to millions of undocumented migrants through the state’s Medi-Cal program. Hunt is calling for a comprehensive audit of Medi-Cal, California’s Medicaid expansion program.

In a recent letter obtained by Fox News Digital, Hunt urged Newsom to conduct a thorough examination of the Medi-Cal enrollment figures. He advocates for the public release of findings regarding ineligible individuals receiving these benefits and the revocation of waivers that enable the state to provide Medi-Cal to undocumented migrants.

Hunt argued that given the Democratic leadership in Congress and Governor Newsom’s known opposition to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations, it is essential to ensure transparency regarding the number of undocumented immigrants benefitting from programs intended for American citizens. “It is only logical to demand transparency on how many illegal immigrants in California are receiving benefits meant solely for American citizens,” Hunt stated.

California’s Undocumented Population and Healthcare System

Recent estimates by the Census Bureau, cited in the Wall Street Journal, suggest that nearly one in five immigrants residing in California are illegal aliens. This significant figure raises questions about the state’s healthcare provisions and eligibility criteria.

According to sources at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), California is legally required to report Medi-Cal data to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This obligation places scrutiny on how the state manages its Medi-Cal enrollment processes.

Recent Changes to Medicaid Policies

In his latest budget, Governor Newsom announced cuts to funding for healthcare services targeted at undocumented migrants. Starting in January 2026, California will freeze Medi-Cal access for new applicants and charges for those already enrolled will be implemented in 2027.

Despite these changes, Hunt has specifically focused on Newsom’s reliance on waivers approved by the Biden administration, which have facilitated easier access to Medi-Cal for undocumented immigrants. Hunt expressed particular concern over Newsom’s use of Section 1115 waivers of the Social Security Act, stating that this action has allowed undocumented immigrants to benefit from Medicaid at the expense of American taxpayers.

Understanding Section 1115 Waivers

Section 1115 of the Social Security Act provides the federal government with the ability to waive specific Medicaid requirements, enabling states to adjust their programs for better efficiency or to meet varying healthcare needs. While these waivers can be beneficial, they also open the door for potential misuse.

Hunt questioned whether California’s Medicaid system truly complies with federal law. He also inquired how many other Democratic-led states might be leveraging similar loopholes, suggesting an urgent need for oversight and accountability. “It’s time to shine a light on this abuse and shut it down,” he asserted.

Demanding Accountability and Transparency

The congressman took the initiative to send a copy of his letter to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy and CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, emphasizing the importance of transparency and adherence to the law within public health programs.

Hunt’s letter conveys a strong message: Californians deserve clarity, accountability, and compliance with the law in managing health programs. “Policies that divert limited resources away from lawful recipients not only violate federal standards—they destroy public trust and threaten the sustainability of programs designed to serve our most vulnerable citizens,” the letter emphasizes.

Fox News Digital reached out to Governor Newsom’s office for a response but did not receive any feedback. As this debate continues, the implications for both California’s budget and the future of undocumented immigrants’ access to healthcare remain significant.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Healthcare for Undocumented Migrants

This ongoing conflict highlights the complexities surrounding immigration, healthcare, and public policy in California. Observers can expect this issue to be a lightning rod for further political debates, especially as budgetary decisions and state audits unfold. The balance between providing care and ensuring legal compliance will be a challenging path for lawmakers, advocates, and constituents alike.