A government report reveals that around 1.3 million undocumented immigrants are enrolled in Medicaid. The total cost for their coverage is estimated at $6.5 billion, according to Antonio Gracias, head of DOGE’s border team.
Surge in Social Security Numbers Raises Concern
Gracias’s team began investigating after noticing a sharp increase in Social Security numbers (SSNs) issued to non-citizens. In 2021, the number was around 400,000. By 2024, it had jumped to over two million. Some recipients entered legally and pay taxes. However, many are undocumented and still qualify for full government aid.
Benefit Systems Allow Easy Access
Gracias stated that federal systems favor inclusion over enforcement.
“People are getting maximum benefits with minimal checks,” he said on the All-In podcast.
He warned that systemic flaws have made it easy for undocumented individuals to receive public support.
Medicaid Costs Reach Billions
The average Medicaid cost per person ranges between $4,000 and $7,000.
With 1.3 million enrolled, the total cost hits approximately $6.5 billion, matching government estimates.
Loose Immigration Rules Blamed
Gracias pointed to policy changes during the Biden administration for the rise in SSNs issued.
Many immigrants entered the U.S. through asylum programs or with Notices to Appear (NTAs).
The rules for entry were loosely defined, making it easier for more people to qualify.
Poor Vetting and Missing Data
Gracias said many applicants received SSNs with little to no ID verification.
“Some had documents, others didn’t. About 23% had no fingerprints on file,” he revealed.
This raises concerns about security and oversight in the system.
Suspicious Birthdates Suggest Data Issues
Investigators found that January 1st appeared frequently as a birthdate in the database.
This pattern may indicate errors or intentional data manipulation.
Voter Registration Violations
Gracias also uncovered cases where undocumented individuals registered and voted in U.S. elections. “Thousands were on voter rolls. Many actually voted,” he said. He called this discovery shocking and a potential federal law violation.
SSNs Originally for Citizens Only
Social Security numbers were once limited to U.S. citizens. Since 2003, non-citizens could get them to ensure tax contributions. Gracias believes this change has led to widespread misuse.
Ongoing Investigation Suggests Bigger Issues
Gracias warned that current findings might be only the beginning. “This is about America’s systems, not politics,” he stated. He stressed the need for urgent action to prevent further abuse.
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