After four years of high inflation and rising costs, President Trump and Congressional Republicans are focusing on lowering taxes and prices for American citizens. However, some Democratic-led states are increasing spending on health care for undocumented immigrants while reducing funding for other public services.
In California, Governor Gavin Newsom’s final budget allocates $10 billion to health care for undocumented immigrants, compared to $348 million for state police. According to the state’s data, about 1.7 million undocumented immigrants—11% of Medi-Cal enrollees—now receive these benefits, which use up 25% of all state Medicaid dollars. The cost is reported to be 35% higher than what was estimated in January. California is also considering a $900 tax on the uninsured, while undocumented immigrants would pay only $30 monthly premiums. Newsom has responded to criticism by calling it “California derangement syndrome.”
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker is directing $629 million toward health care for noncitizens in fiscal year 2025, exceeding combined spending on roads, senior meals, foster care, and the arts. Since 2021, Illinois has spent a total of $1.6 billion on similar programs with about 30,000 undocumented immigrants currently enrolled in the state plan. Despite new limits on coverage, the program faces a $200 million budget deficit.
Oregon has committed $1.5 billion to its Healthier Oregon program for 2025–27—more than double the amount allocated for state police. The program provides free full health coverage to noncitizens regardless of legal status and has seen enrollment nearly double projections, leading to a $260 million shortfall. The Oregon Health Authority reports that the state covers about $1.2 billion of this cost with federal reimbursement accounting for roughly 25%. Since its launch in 2021, spending on this program has increased by more than 1,100%.
These developments come as taxpayers in these states face higher taxes and insurance premiums amid continued inflation.
A statement from Republican leadership says: “From coast to coast, blue states are spending billions on health care for illegal aliens while cutting core services for American citizens. In California, Illinois, and Oregon, Democrat governors have made clear where their priorities lie — and it isn’t with working families, law enforcement, or seniors.”
Mike Johnson is currently serving in the U.S. Congress representing Louisiana’s 4th district after replacing John Fleming in 2017. He previously served in the Louisiana House of Representatives from 2015 to 2017 and holds degrees from Louisiana State University.
President Trump and Congressional Republicans say they will continue efforts aimed at lowering costs and prioritizing American families.
