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Leavitt Slams Democrats Over Rising Medicaid Costs for Immigrants

10/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Karoline Leavitt, White House press secretary, criticized Democrats' Medicaid spending on illegal immigrants, saying it nearly tripled under Biden.
She cited $9.1 billion spent on emergency services for illegal immigrants in fiscal year 2024, up 142%.
Republicans warn Democrats' plans would raise taxpayer costs, totaling $200 billion, while Democrats deny free healthcare and push extended tax credits, reversing Medicaid cuts.

History

Historical Context

The Affordable Care Act (ACA), enacted on March 23, 2010, expanded Medicaid eligibility to low-income adults, increasing enrollment by approximately 12 million. This expansion aimed to improve healthcare access, yet ongoing debates about Medicaid spending highlight partisan divides, with Republicans projecting a $200 billion taxpayer cost. The ACA's impact continues to shape U.S. healthcare policy and discussions on fiscal responsibility.

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Story summary

Karoline Leavitt, White House press secretary, criticized Democrats' Medicaid spending on illegal immigrants, saying it nearly tripled under Biden.
She cited $9.1 billion spent on emergency services for illegal immigrants in fiscal year 2024, up 142%.
Republicans warn Democrats' plans would raise taxpayer costs, totaling $200 billion, while Democrats deny free healthcare and push extended tax credits, reversing Medicaid cuts.

1 / 2