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Democrats say the fight for undocumented immigrant healthcare isn't over, despite budget deal

Democrats say the fight for undocumented immigrant healthcare isn't over, despite budget deal

Yahoo18-05-2025

The Brief
Last week, legislative leaders announced a bipartisan deal that would finally bring the legislature one-step closer to passing a two-year budget.
Progressive Democrats immediately opposed the deal, as it comes at the cost of healthcare for undocumented immigrants.
While 33 Democrats vowed not to support a bill ending the program, several party leaders said they have a plan to keep the program and still get the budget passed on time.
ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) - Minnesota lawmakers are butting heads at the State Capitol as they try to pass a two-year budget.
The backstory
A program providing healthcare for undocumented Minnesotans took effect at the start of the year. The Department of Human Services has reported that it has already cost 32 percent more than projected, with almost triple the expected enrollment.
Democrats have argued that providing preventative healthcare is more cost-effective than forcing individuals to visit the emergency room when they need care.
Those opposed have vowed to vote 'no' on the measure, which could threaten a deal.
What they're saying
Rep. Cedrick Frazier told reporters Saturday that democrats were working on a plan that would ensure undocumented individuals continue to receive healthcare.
"We're talking to folks behind the scenes and we're going to work things out," he said.
DFL House Floor Leader Jamie Long told FOX 9 he anticipates the issue will be removed from the larger budget bill and voted on separately.
"Its going to be interesting to see if the DFL caucuses are able to pull together and actually stick to the deal they made or be de-railed by their far left flank," said GOP House Floor Leader Harry Niska.
What's next
Lawmakers in St. Paul acknowledged that it is likely – if not inevitable – that they are headed for a special session.
The legislative session is scheduled to end Monday at midnight, but as lawmakers continue to work through individual budget bills it is unlikely they will meet that deadline.

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Analysis: Trump's top general just undercut his ‘invasion' claims
Analysis: Trump's top general just undercut his ‘invasion' claims

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Analysis: Trump's top general just undercut his ‘invasion' claims

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Trump White House opens door to historic military deployment on U.S. soil
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Washington Post

time18 minutes ago

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Trump White House opens door to historic military deployment on U.S. soil

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The White House's message coincides with a rise in bellicose language from Trump, who in recent days has threatened the use of force not only against immigration activists but also against any protesters who attempt to disrupt the military parade scheduled in Washington Saturday to celebrate the Army's 250th anniversary. The parade, which Trump has wanted for years and will feature tanks, helicopters and Army parachutists, is shaping up to be a symbolic culmination of a dramatic week in which in which the president not only prepared for a historic deployment of armed forces against domestic adversaries but openly embraced shows of military force. In a speech at Fort Bragg in North Carolina Tuesday, the president reveled in the nation's military power as base leaders showcased several tactical demonstrations. 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