State officials criticize Trump administration over Medicaid data sharing with DHS

The Trump administration transmitted sensitive data of 1. 7 million Medicaid enrollees from Washington to the Department of Homeland Security, igniting strong backlash from state officials. The shared information includes names, social security numbers, and immigration statuses, raising significant ethical and legal concerns. Governor Bob Ferguson criticized the administration for targeting vulnerable residents, stating it breeds chaos and fear. The Washington Health Care Authority (HCA) noted it was compelled by law to submit certain data but opposed the transfer to federal officials.

Experts caution that while the data could help locate undocumented migrants, it may also obstruct their paths to green cards or citizenship. The HCA's statement condemned the action as an "unethical" and "gross misuse" of their data. State leaders are considering all available options to address this sensitive issue. The situation underscores ongoing tensions between state governments and federal immigration policies.