House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, appeared on ‘FOX News Sunday’ to discuss the House bill passed to combat antisemitism and criticize Democrats’ response to the GOP’s plan to link border and Ukraine funding. Johnson argued that it “makes sense” to couple Ukraine aid with funding for the U.S.-Mexico border, emphasizing the importance of taking care of their own border first.
In response to Democratic chairs of leading congressional caucuses who accused Republicans of exploiting two foreign wars to force their extreme immigration agenda into law, Johnson stated, “What this is about is advancing the agenda and first priorities of the American people. I don’t know which Democrat gave you that absurd quote, but they clearly are not listening to their constituents.”
Johnson highlighted the sentiment among the American people that while they understand the role of the U.S. as a leader in the free world, they believe it is essential to take care of their own house first. He stated, “And securing our border is an essential priority for the American people. So they’re not listening to their constituents. I think that’s a tone-deaf response.”
Johnson acknowledged a growing consensus in Congress, even among some Democrats, that a change in border policies is necessary. He cited the alarming number of more than 6.3 million illegal border crossings since President Biden took office, emphasizing the need to address issues such as fentanyl smuggling, human trafficking, and cartel activities.
The House Speaker expressed the commitment of House Republicans to address these challenges, stating, “We are going to stop that. And the House Republicans are committed to it. I think the people are with us.”
Johnson also addressed the upcoming Nov. 17 deadline for appropriations bills, stating that he has been working on a stopgap measure to ensure the appropriations process continues. He emphasized the importance of bringing all 12 bills to the floor, as required by statutory law, to make Congress more accountable and transparent for the people.
Regarding the recent anti-Israel demonstrations in Washington, D.C., Johnson expressed surprise at the level of antisemitism that has sprung up around the country. He defended the House proposal for emergency immediate funding for Israel, which faced criticism from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a Democrat from New York. Johnson argued that House Republicans are being responsible stewards of taxpayers’ resources by offsetting spending instead of printing more money or borrowing funds, suggesting reallocating funds from the IRS budget to prioritize protecting Israel.
In conclusion, House Speaker Mike Johnson’s appearance on ‘FOX News Sunday’ provided insights into the Republican perspective on linking Ukraine aid with funding for the U.S.-Mexico border. Johnson emphasized the need to prioritize border security and highlighted concerns about illegal border crossings, fentanyl smuggling, human trafficking, and cartel activities. He also defended the House proposal for emergency immediate funding for Israel and criticized Democrats’ response to the GOP’s plan.
