ICE hits Gavin Newsom’s California with immigration subpoenas

The Department of Homeland Security has taken action against the state of California, issuing subpoenas to investigate alleged disbursements of federal funds to illegal immigrants. ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) office in Los Angeles filed the subpoenas, targeting the state’s Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI).

CAPI, as described on the program’s website, is intended to provide monthly cash benefits to aged, blind, and disabled non-citizens who are ineligible for federal Supplemental Security Income. However, the White House alleges that the program is providing benefits to illegal immigrants who are not eligible for social security benefits.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem criticized California politicians for prioritizing illegal aliens over citizens, accusing them of giving illegal immigrants access to cash benefits. She stated, “The Trump Administration is working to identify abuse and exploitation of public benefits and ensure that those in the country illegally are not receiving federal benefits or financial incentives to stay illegally.”

The subpoenas issued by HSI seek records dating back to 2021, including the names and dates of birth of CAPI applicants, copies of applications, immigration status, and other related documents. Governor Gavin Newsom’s office has not yet responded to requests for comment on the matter.

This investigation follows a recent report by the Economic Policy Innovation Center (EPIC) that found California funneling billions of federal taxpayer dollars into illegal immigrants’ healthcare and other initiatives. EPIC’s report highlighted a money laundering scheme involving California and insurance companies, resulting in the state obtaining over $19 billion in federal funds without any state contribution.

A spokesperson for California’s Department of Healthcare Services has disputed EPIC’s report, calling it misleading and directing individuals to their website for accurate information on the topic.

This latest development is part of the Trump administration’s efforts to crack down on federal waste and illegal immigration programs across the country. The investigation into California’s disbursement of federal funds to illegal immigrants is ongoing, with potential implications for the state’s policies and practices.