Rep. Wesley Hunt, R-Texas, is pressing California Gov. Gavin Newsom to account for how many illegal migrants are receiving taxpayer-funded health benefits through the state’s Medi-Cal program.
In a letter obtained by Fox News Digital, Hunt demanded a full audit of California’s Medicaid system, calling for the governor to release data on ineligible recipients and to revoke federal waivers that make it easier for illegal immigrants to qualify for Medi-Cal coverage.
“Given Democrats’ open resistance to immigration enforcement and Gov. Newsom’s vocal opposition to ICE, it’s only logical to demand transparency,” Hunt wrote. “California must come clean on how many illegal immigrants are receiving benefits that were never meant for them.”
Hunt: Waivers Open the Door to Abuse
Hunt took particular aim at the state’s use of Section 1115 waivers under the Social Security Act—provisions that allow states to sidestep some Medicaid rules with federal approval. He argued the waivers, granted under the Biden administration, have enabled California to expand Medi-Cal access to undocumented migrants, burdening American taxpayers in the process.
“I’m especially alarmed by Newsom’s use of these waivers to divert limited healthcare resources to non-citizens,” Hunt said. “It’s time to shine a light on this abuse and shut it down.”
Newsom’s Recent Changes Not Enough, Hunt Says
While Newsom did include cuts to migrant healthcare in California’s new budget—pausing new Medi-Cal enrollment for undocumented immigrants beginning January 2026 and adding premium charges starting in 2027—Hunt said the governor is still exploiting federal loopholes.
He also questioned whether California’s Medicaid system is fully compliant with federal law and whether other Democrat-led states may be following suit.
Rising Migrant Numbers, Rising Costs
According to the Wall Street Journal, the Census Bureau estimates one in five immigrants in California are undocumented. Under current law, California is required to report Medi-Cal data to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), but Hunt claims the state isn’t being transparent about who’s receiving benefits.
The Texas lawmaker sent copies of his letter to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy and CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, urging federal oversight.
“Californians Deserve Answers”
“Californians deserve transparency, accountability, and adherence to the law,” Hunt’s letter concludes. “When public resources are funneled to those who aren’t entitled to them, it erodes public trust and endangers the long-term stability of these programs.”
Gov. Newsom’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
