Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., joined ‘Sunday’ to discuss the Biden administration’s economic approach to the Israel-Hamas war and the House GOP’s continued search for a new House Speaker. McConnell deemed China, Russia, and Iran the new “axis of evil” amid ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Israel, while addressing U.S. funding of allies’ responses to these dual conflicts.
In an interview with “Sunday” host Shannon Bream, McConnell agreed with fellow Republican Sen. Rand Paul that the $1.5 trillion deficit is “entirely too big.” However, he emphasized that the deficit had also expanded during the previous administration under former President Donald Trump.
McConnell highlighted the immediate threat posed by China, Russia, and Iran to the United States, referring to them as an “axis of evil.” He emphasized the need to address this threat and respond to the conditions that exist. McConnell stated, “In many ways, the world is more endangered today than it has been in my lifetime,” citing the big power competition and terrorism threats in the Middle East, including Israel’s war against Hamas terrorists.
He criticized the Biden administration for its handling of the withdrawal from Afghanistan, stating that it sent the wrong signal and gave a green light to Putin to go into Ukraine. McConnell argued that the conflicts in Ukraine and Israel are connected and cannot be separated.
McConnell stressed the importance of viewing the Israel-Hamas war as a worldwide problem and acknowledged China’s stance on the conflict. He expressed the need for a credible approach to the border in the budget supplemental, emphasizing the responsibility of helping allies while also addressing domestic concerns.
Responding to criticism regarding tying Ukrainian aid to the atrocities in Israel, McConnell argued that the conflicts are interconnected and pose a serious threat to the United States. He warned that if the Russians aren’t defeated, they could target a NATO country next. McConnell also highlighted the relevance of Ukraine to Asian and Middle Eastern countries, citing the interest of Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan in the situation.
Regarding recent reports of U.S. equipment being diverted to Israel and Taiwan’s unfulfilled artillery needs, McConnell stated that providing assistance to Ukraine helps rebuild the U.S. industrial base and creates jobs. He debunked the notion that assistance for Ukraine is not beneficial to the United States.
In conclusion, McConnell’s interview shed light on the Biden administration’s economic approach to the Israel-Hamas war, the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Israel, and the importance of addressing the threat posed by China, Russia, and Iran. McConnell emphasized the interconnected nature of these conflicts and the need for a strong response from the United States.
This article was written by Danielle Wallace, a reporter for Digital covering politics, crime, police, and more. For story tips, contact [email protected] or follow her on Twitter: @danimwallace. Stay updated with the latest updates from the 2024 campaign trail, exclusive interviews, and more politics content by subscribing to the newsletter.
