-Editorial
Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-25) invited Dr. Ida Obeso-Martinez, Mayor Pro-Tempore of the City of Imperial and a dedicated Cardiovascular Nurse Practitioner, as his guest for President Donald Trump’s Joint Address to Congress.
A lifelong resident of Imperial County, Dr. Obeso-Martinez has been a steadfast advocate for healthcare access in her community. She began her academic journey at Imperial High School before earning an Associate’s degree in Nursing from Imperial Valley College, a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Phoenix, and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Arizona. She went on to serve at the Imperial Cardiac Center, treating more than 35 patients daily, many of whom relied on Medicaid for essential medical care.
Dr. Obeso-Martinez has dedicated her career to promoting public health and community education, witnessing firsthand the critical role Medicaid plays in underserved regions like Imperial County. Amidst proposed Medicaid cuts by President Trump and House Republicans, she joined Congressman Ruiz in voicing concerns over the potential harm to working-class families.
Medicaid provides health coverage to 10.4 million Californians, including 420,206 residents in California’s 25th Congressional District—42.1% of the district’s population. This includes 177,096 children under 19 and 41,000 seniors over 65. Ruiz has been a vocal opponent of any reductions to the program, arguing that such cuts would disproportionately impact vulnerable communities.
“I am deeply honored and grateful to Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz for the opportunity to attend the Joint Session of Congress,” Dr. Obeso-Martinez stated. “His leadership has brought critical federal resources to support healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development in our communities. As a lifelong advocate for expanding healthcare access in the Imperial Valley, I stand against Medicaid cuts that would limit the care our health facilities can provide. I appreciate Congressman Ruiz’s continued advocacy and the privilege of experiencing this historic moment alongside him.”
With healthcare access remaining a key issue in the district, Dr. Obeso-Martinez’s presence at the address underscored the ongoing fight to protect vital medical programs for Imperial Valley residents.
