GOP Representative Expresses Confidence in Ukraine Funding Vote Post Easter Break
A moderate Republican lawmaker, Rep. Mike Lawler, shares his confidence in the upcoming House vote on funding for Ukraine's war efforts after the Easter recess. Despite divisions within the House GOP causing delays, Rep. Lawler remains optimistic about providing aid to the crucial US ally.
Rep. Mike Lawler, a moderate Republican from New York, is hopeful that a vote on funding for Ukraine’s war effort will take place when House members come back from recess in early next month. The House GOP's internal disagreements have been a roadblock in providing aid to Ukraine, a crucial US ally.
Lawler, who sits on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, shared his optimism with CNN’s Dana Bash on “State of the Union,” stating, “I believe there will be a vote when we get back from the Easter recess.”
He mentioned that it is crucial for our allies, as we are the leader of the free world and must fulfill our duty to protect and support democracies worldwide.
Lawler, along with Democratic Rep. Jared Golden of Maine and Republican Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, is advocating for a discharge petition to allow a vote on their bill. They are hoping that the speaker will bring the bill or a revised version to the floor to ensure that our allies receive the necessary aid and assistance.
The Republican said he’s spoken with House Speaker Mike Johnson about the discharge petition effort.
U.S. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) speaks during a news conference with House Republican leadership on February 29, 2024 in Washington, DC.
U.S. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) speaks during a news conference with House Republican leadership on February 29, 2024 in Washington, DC.
Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images
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Lawler stated that he had a direct conversation with him and expressed confidence that the bill would be brought to the floor for a vote. House Intelligence Committee Chair Mike Turner also mentioned that Johnson has made it clear that passing supplemental aid to Ukraine will be a top priority upon Congress' return.
"We are at a critical point on the ground that could affect the morale and fighting capabilities of Ukrainians," said the Ohio Republican on CBS's "Face the Nation." Putin is aware of this situation.
Johnson faces a tough decision when it comes to funding for Ukraine. There is a possibility of a vote for his removal, as GOP Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has filed a motion to vacate. Some far-right Republicans are against providing any additional funds to Ukraine in its battle against Russia, which could lead to backlash from members who have a say in the fate of the Louisiana representative.
Lawler criticized Greene's attempt to remove Johnson as "idiotic." He mentioned that this action would not help the cause she supports and could actually weaken the House Republican majority.
Democrats may be open to saving Johnson if he introduces a Ukraine aid bill that they approve of. However, they are not in favor of including new border restrictions, which Lawler has proposed, as it is not aligned with their requirements.
The discussion about mixing foreign aid with border regulations was intense last month. Senate Republicans ended up blocking a significant bipartisan agreement that would have given aid to US allies and implemented strict border measures. This move came after facing strong resistance from House Republicans and former President Donald Trump.
Following the failed effort, the Senate passed a $95.3 billion foreign aid bill last month. This bill included assistance for Ukraine and Israel, which Johnson had previously stated he would not bring up for a vote.
CNN reported earlier this month that Johnson had left the door open for some House Republicans to work on a package. This package would include foreign aid and restrictions on the US-Mexico border. It could be brought up after members finalized a deal to fund the government. This deal was successfully completed earlier this month and was signed by President Joe Biden last week.
Special thanks to CNN’s Melanie Zanona, Annie Grayer, Manu Raju, Clare Foran, Ted Barrett, and Morgan Rimmer for their contributions to this report.
Editor's P/S:
The article highlights the ongoing debate within the House GOP over providing funding to Ukraine. Rep. Mike Lawler expresses optimism for a vote upon their return from recess, emphasizing the importance of supporting our allies. However, the article also acknowledges the internal disagreements within the Republican party, with some opposing additional aid to Ukraine.
Lawler, along with other bipartisan representatives, is advocating for a discharge petition to force a vote on their bill. House Speaker Mike Johnson faces a challenging decision, as he must balance the support of moderate Republicans like Lawler with the opposition of far-right members who oppose Ukraine funding. The article further discusses the potential consequences of Johnson's actions, including a possible motion to vacate his position. surrounding foreign aid and immigration policies.
