House Speaker Johnson Praised by Moderate Republicans for Foreign Aid Decision
House Speaker Mike Johnson received praise from moderate Republicans for his leadership in bringing foreign aid legislation to the floor. House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul described the decision as a bold and courageous move, emphasizing the importance of bipartisan cooperation in foreign affairs.
House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul praised House Speaker Mike Johnson for his decision to bring foreign aid legislation to the House floor. McCaul called it a "profile in courage" and expressed his pride in Speaker Johnson for prioritizing the nation's needs over personal interests. The Texas Republican commended Speaker Johnson for his transformation and for standing on the right side of history despite any potential consequences.
A $95 billion foreign aid package was passed by the House on Saturday, providing aid to Israel, Ukraine, and the Indo-Pacific. The package consists of four separate bills that will be combined into one amendment and sent to the Senate for a vote on Tuesday. The bipartisan pressure on Johnson to provide support for allies abroad increased, while his far-right allies attempted to remove him from his position.
Getty Images
Related article
Marjorie Taylor Greene is urging Johnson to resign after foreign aid bills pass, warning that he could face removal from his position if he does not step down voluntarily. A group of staunch Republicans, including Greene, have criticized Johnson for collaborating with Democrats to push through foreign aid and other legislative priorities. Rep. McCaul, who was with Johnson the night before the foreign aid bills were introduced, shared that Johnson, a devout Christian, prayed as he considered the political implications of his decision to bring the legislation to the House floor.
McCaul expressed concern about the urgency of the situation in Ukraine, stating that the country is on the brink of collapse. He highlighted the immense responsibility faced by individuals in positions of power, such as the former speaker of the United States.
According to McCaul, the reason why many House Republicans opposed providing additional aid to Ukraine is due to a misconception. He explained that some believed there was a choice between supporting the US southern border or assisting Ukraine, when in reality, both are important causes.
The world, our adversaries, and history are all watching closely, as I've reminded my colleagues. I ask them, do you want to be a Chamberlain or a Churchill? This analogy is frequently used by McCaul in discussions about supporting Ukraine in its battle against Russia.
Despite Johnson's success in getting these aid bills approved, there is a possibility of chaos in the House if the far-right wing of his party succeeds in removing him from the speakership.
McCaul was asked if he thinks Johnson's job is at risk after the vote, to which he replied that "Mike Johnson's reputation has significantly improved" and that he has earned respect from both parties.
SOTU Gonzalez during panel_00004226.png
SOTU Gonzalez during panel_00004226.png
video
Related video
Texas Rep. Tony Gonzales on Republican hardliners: ‘These fringe people think as if they have the high ground, they do not’
Former President Donald Trump has previously opposed providing aid to Ukraine, suggesting that the US should only give aid in the form of loans. He has also hinted that he would support Russian aggression against NATO countries that do not contribute enough financially. However, Trump has not publicly commented on the aid package approved by the House on Saturday. He has shown support for Johnson's speakership in the past.
According to McCaul, Trump's desire is for Ukraine to receive assistance now, so that when he becomes president, he can negotiate to secure and protect it.
Editor's P/S:
The passage highlights the political turmoil surrounding the passage of a $95 billion foreign aid package, particularly the role of House Speaker Mike Johnson. While Rep. McCaul praises Johnson's courage in prioritizing national needs, the far-right wing of the Republican party seeks to remove Johnson from his position for collaborating with Democrats. The article underscores the urgency of aid to Ukraine, with McCaul drawing parallels to historical figures to emphasize the importance of standing against aggression.
The article also mentions former President Trump's position on Ukraine aid, suggesting that he supports assistance now with the expectation of negotiating protection later. Overall, the passage reflects the ongoing political divide within the Republican party and the challenges faced by leaders in navigating complex foreign policy issues.
