This decision sets up a potential clash with the Democratic-controlled Senate and White House, which prefer to link the two issues. Johnson supports Ukraine aid but has called for “conditions” on it. The House’s first week under Johnson’s leadership coincides with the impending expiration of government funding, testing his ability to pass appropriations bills and aid to Israel amidst motions targeting specific lawmakers.
House Speaker Mike Johnson has vowed to move forward with a $14.5 billion aid package for Israel when the House reconvenes later this week, according to sources on his first GOP conference call since assuming the top position.
Johnson’s decision to advance a standalone funding bill for Israel, which he indicated would be fully paid for, and separate it from Ukraine aid sets the stage for a potential clash with the Democratic-controlled Senate and White House, which prefer to link the two issues. Ukraine aid, when considered on its own, faces an uncertain path in the GOP-led House. Johnson has previously expressed support for Ukraine aid but has called for “conditions” to be attached to it.
The first week of Johnson’s tenure as House Speaker coincides with the impending expiration of government funding next month, posing an immediate test of the Louisiana Republican’s ability to pass appropriations bills and secure aid for Israel. The week ahead will also feature motions targeting specific lawmakers, including a resolution to expel New York GOP Rep. George Santos, who faces federal charges related to identity theft and fraudulent credit card charges. Additionally, resolutions to censure Michigan Democratic Rep. Rashida Tlaib and Georgia GOP Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene will be on the agenda. Johnson did not reveal his stance on the Santos expulsion effort but expressed caution about the Tlaib censure effort, emphasizing that Republicans should focus on policy disagreements with Democrats.