In a recent development on the US government spending bill, House Speaker Mike Johnson faced a setback as a rebellion within the GOP over government spending unfolded. However, members of the House Freedom Caucus are cautiously optimistic about Johnson’s ability to cut spending and advance conservative policies.
The House Freedom Caucus, known for its conservative stance, expressed trust in Speaker Johnson’s goals and his commitment to reducing spending. Representative Ralph Norman of South Carolina stated, “He assures us, and we trust him that that’s the case.” Norman also emphasized that they will not continue with the current spending trajectory if the goals are not met, stating, “We’re gonna start taking rules down. We’re just not going to keep going like this. We’re just not doing it. Whatever it takes.”
The tensions within the House GOP Conference, primarily revolving around government spending, came to the forefront once again when Johnson passed a short-term spending bill, also known as a continuing resolution (CR), to avoid a government shutdown. This move received mixed reactions from GOP members, with some expressing their disagreement with the strategy.
Representative Chip Roy from Texas criticized the decision, stating, “I’ve been very public about it, I think it was a mistake… and I think it was not in the best interest of trying to force Democrats to the table on the things we need to do.” However, Roy also expressed his support for Johnson, saying, “Bottom line is, he’s been in three weeks, he’s a good friend, he’s a good man. I’ll fully get behind him, you know, if we pick a fight, we’ll go fight. Let’s rock and roll, move forward.”
The House Freedom Caucus Chairman, Representative Scott Perry from Pennsylvania, echoed the sentiment of wanting to see progress and righteous policy. He emphasized that their actions were meant to send a message and stated, “We’re sending a shot across the bow. We do this in good faith. We want to see these bills move. We want to see good righteous policy. But we’re not going to be part of the failure theater anymore.”
The vote against the spending bill and the rule vote was not only driven by opposition to the bill itself but also by a desire to challenge the status quo. Johnson’s predecessor, former Speaker Kevin McCarthy, was removed from his position by a coalition of Republican hardliners and Democrats. However, conservatives within the party believe that Johnson will take a different approach.
Representative Ben Cline from Virginia, a member of the House Freedom Caucus, defended Johnson, stating, “It’s not in his nature to just listen at the beginning and then fade into the habits of just convening leadership meetings, and not listening to the people. He’ll be that listening speaker who continues to solicit the input of the rank-and-file moving forward.” Representative Norman also expressed trust in Johnson, highlighting the honesty and transparency they have experienced under his leadership.
While there are cautious expressions of support for Johnson, there is also a recognition of the need for financial responsibility. Representative Eric Burlison from Missouri commented on the challenges Johnson will face in finding a different plan, particularly in areas such as FISA reauthorization and appropriations bills. Burlison emphasized that the real fight lies within the conference itself, rather than against Johnson.
As Speaker Johnson faces this setback, there is a sense of hope and caution within the House Freedom Caucus. Members trust in Johnson’s intentions but are also aware of the challenges ahead. The divide within the GOP over government spending remains an important issue, and Johnson’s ability to navigate these complexities will determine the path forward.
Elizabeth Elkind, a reporter for Fox News, contributed to this article. She focuses on Congress and the intersection of Artificial Intelligence and politics. Her previous digital bylines can be found at Daily Mail and CBS News.
