The California flag and state capitol (Getty Images)
In recent weeks, DeMaio has gone viral for his questioning of California officials, particularly when it comes to the state’s budget. He prompted an answer from a state budget official revealing that $9.5 billion is being spent on MediCal for illegal immigrants, which is higher than a previous $6 billion projection.
"They were embarrassed. It made national news. People were appalled across the state of California so much money is going to illegal immigrants just for healthcare," DeMaio said.
He also suggested the state enlist Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to help improve processes in the state.
DeMaio is also making the case that a "COVID-19 workplace outreach" program is being used to back left-leaning groups that do political work outside the scope of its namesake, according to the California Globe.
SKYROCKETING HEALTHCARE COSTS FOR ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS SPARKS BORDER STATE OUTCRY
Assemblymember Carl DeMaio, R-San Diego (CQ/Getty)
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Despite the mix of praise and backlash, DeMaio believes it's important to put a spotlight on the Golden State.
"The reason why all Americans should be carefully watching what's going on in California is that the bad ideas coming to your state actually usually get their start in California," DeMaio said.
"They use California as a petri dish for their far left-wing extremist ideas, and then they export these bad ideas to other states, and they claim that it's successful out here."
Cameron Arcand is a politics writer at Fox News Digital in Washington D.C. Story tips can be sent to Cameron.Arcand@Fox.com and on Twitter: @cameron_arcand
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/blue-state-gop-lawmaker-goes-viral-exposing-states-spending-proposals