Stalemate in Negotiations Over Aid for Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan, and Border Security
House Speaker Mike Johnson has been pushing for a one-on-one meeting with President Joe Biden to address critical issues related to aid for Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan, and border security. However, all his meeting requests have been declined by the White House, leading to a standstill in Congress.
White House Pushes Back
The White House cited Johnson’s shifting positions on foreign aid and border security as reasons for denying the meeting requests. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre criticized Johnson for rejecting bipartisan Senate deals and accused him of “negotiating with himself.”
Johnson’s Stand
Despite the refusals, Johnson remains adamant about the need for a meeting with Biden. He emphasized the seriousness of the issues at hand and expressed his willingness to engage in good faith discussions.
Stalemate Continues
With no breakthrough in negotiations, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise highlighted the administration’s inattention to the southern border. The White House expressed frustration, suggesting that Johnson is unclear about his priorities.
Urgency for Ukraine Aid
National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan underscored the urgent need for aid to Ukraine as it continues to battle Russia’s invasion. The White House pressed Johnson to bring the Senate foreign aid bill to the floor, confident it would receive bipartisan support.
As the deadlock persists, the fate of crucial aid packages hangs in the balance, with Johnson and the White House at odds over how to move forward.