Minnesota State Wire

U.S. Representative Pete Stauber has voiced concerns over the ongoing government shutdown, attributing the deadlock to Democrats' demands, which he claims include benefits for undocumented immigrants and significant cuts to rural health services. Stauber urged action to reopen the government and protect rural healthcare in a statement made on X.

"Democrats are holding the American government hostage over crazy partisan demands, which includes healthcare benefits for illegal aliens," said Peter Allen Stauber, U.S. Representative of Minnesota's 8th Congressional District (R). "They are also demanding a $50 billion cut from rural health. To prioritize healthcare for illegal immigrants over healthcare for American citizens in rural areas shows just how out of touch the Democrat party has become."

The federal government has remained shut down into October 2025 due to repeated failed Senate votes and continuing partisan disputes over spending priorities. Reports indicate increasing operational disruptions and risks of missed pay as negotiations stall, with leaders from both parties trading blame while proposing partial solutions. The impasse has raised concerns for service members, federal workers, and families dependent on government services. Stauber's remarks reflect House Republicans' efforts to pass stopgap funding while urging the Senate to act and drop contentious add-ons.

Federal guidance clarifies that Medicaid's federal funds are generally unavailable for individuals without satisfactory immigration status beyond limited emergency services; eligibility primarily covers citizens and qualified non-citizens under specific conditions. Recent oversight actions by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) have emphasized preventing improper payments related to noncitizens with unsatisfactory status, highlighting statutory limits central to current debates over shutdown demands and health benefits.

Rural health systems continue to face persistent strain. Analyses from The Chartis Center for Rural Health and other researchers indicate that hundreds of rural hospitals are financially vulnerable, experiencing service cutbacks—such as obstetrics closures—and facing heightened closure risk. A 2025 summary reported more than 400 rural hospitals at risk nationwide, illustrating how substantial funding reductions could exacerbate access challenges for small communities and critical access facilities across the country.

Stauber represents Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District. A native of Duluth, former police officer, and small business owner, he focuses on expanding economic opportunity, supporting miners and manufacturers, backing law enforcement, and strengthening rural health and infrastructure. Now in his fourth term, Stauber emphasizes practical, pro-growth solutions and constituent service across northeastern Minnesota. His official biography highlights his commitment to safe communities, good-paying jobs, and dependable services for families in the Northland.