Senator Criticizes California’s Medi-Cal Spending Practices
Senator John Kennedy from Louisiana voiced strong criticisms against California’s Medicaid program, Medi-Cal. The Trump administration is scrutinizing the program for alleged fraud. Kennedy highlighted reports that Medi-Cal covers exorcisms and faith-based healing practices during a recent hearing.
California’s Medicaid spending has come under increased observation as costs have more than doubled since 2019. The budget initially set at approximately $100.7 billion is expected to reach $222 billion by 2026. The administration suspended $1.4 billion in federal funding recently due to an anti-fraud task force led by Vice President J.D. Vance. This task force identified an estimated $600 million in suspected fraud within California’s Medicaid system.
During questioning directed at Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, Senator Kennedy expressed concern about taxpayer money funding exorcisms, a religious practice mainly associated with the Catholic Church, and other spiritual practices. Kennedy questioned why such practices have been funded for so long, particularly in a state housing 12% of the national population.
Medi-Cal expanded in 2024 to cover traditional healers and natural helpers among tribal communities. This includes services like music therapy and spiritual interventions under Governor Gavin Newsom’s office.
For a person to be acknowledged as a traditional healer, requirements include serving as a spiritual leader within an American Indian tribe for a minimum of two years. They must also be contracted by an Indian Health Care Provider. The criteria for a natural helper are less particular, focusing primarily on being a trusted member of a tribe.
This expansion, according to Governor Newsom, aims to address historical injustices inflicted on Native American tribes. He stated, “By supporting greater access to traditional medicine and healing, we are taking another step toward a healthier, brighter future.”
The California Department of Health and Human Services has not provided details on how much Medi-Cal has allocated to these services. No response was given to Fox News Digital by the time of publication.