Taking out ‘two disenfranchised groups with one stone’: Alicia slams Agriculture Secy

Immigration & Labor Market - The agricultural industry faces labor shortages due to fears of ICE raids deterring migrant workers [1] - The administration's proposed solution involves automation and utilizing 34 million able-bodied adults in the Medicaid program [3][4] - Approximately half of America's farm workers are undocumented, potentially affecting the affordability of produce if deported, which could be upwards of 3 million people [11][12] Medicaid & Workforce - Analysis of Medicaid recipients reveals that 38% are children, 17% live in rural areas, and 15% have three or more chronic conditions [6] - A majority (70%) of Medicaid adults are already working (44% full-time, 26% part-time), while the remaining 30% are not working due to caregiving responsibilities, illness, or disability [6][7] Political & Economic Implications - The Secretary of Agriculture faces conflicting pressures between supporting the agricultural industry's need for labor and the President's promise to deport undocumented workers [12] - The administration's policies are criticized for showing disdain towards poor and working people, particularly regarding farm workers and Medicaid recipients [14]