GOP congressman rips Newsom for providing illegal migrants with Medi-Cal

Texas Rep. Wesley Hunt has taken aim at California Governor Gavin Newsom for providing health benefits to millions of illegal migrants through the state’s Medi-Cal program. In a scathing letter obtained by Fox News Digital, Hunt called on Newsom to conduct a full audit of California’s Medi-Cal enrollment, publicly release findings of ineligible individuals receiving benefits, and revoke waivers that allow the state to provide Medi-Cal to illegal migrants.

Hunt highlighted the need for transparency, especially given Newsom’s public opposition to ICE operations and the Democrats’ stance on immigration. With one in five immigrants in California estimated to be illegal aliens, Hunt emphasized the importance of understanding how many illegal immigrants in the state are receiving benefits intended for American citizens.

Newsom recently signed a budget freezing California taxpayer-funded Medi-Cal for new illegal immigrant applicants starting in January 2026 and plans to charge illegal migrants on the program a premium beginning in 2027. However, Hunt focused on Newsom’s use of waivers granted by the Biden administration that make it easier for illegal migrants to access Medi-Cal.

Specifically, Hunt raised concerns about Newsom’s use of Section 1115 waivers under the Social Security Act, which allow states to waive specific Medicaid requirements. Hunt questioned whether California’s Medicaid system fully complies with federal law and called for transparency on potential abuses in other Democrat-run states.

In his letter, Hunt also copied HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy and CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, emphasizing the need for transparency, accountability, and adherence to the law in the administration of public health programs. Hunt stressed that policies diverting resources away from lawful recipients not only violate federal standards but also erode public trust and jeopardize programs designed to serve vulnerable citizens.

Fox News Digital reached out to Newsom’s office for comment but did not receive a response. With Hunt’s calls for a full audit and transparency in California’s Medi-Cal program, the spotlight remains on the state’s handling of healthcare benefits for illegal migrants.