Johnson defends Israel aid package despite Senate, White House criticism.
House Speaker Defends $14 Billion Israel Aid Package Amid Criticism
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) on Nov. 5 passionately defended the recently approved billion aid package for Israel, countering criticism from the Senate and White House.
Johnson’s proposal aims to allocate $14 billion in aid to Israel, with the funding offset by a cut to IRS funding. This offset has faced opposition, particularly from Democrats.
Last week, the House approved Johnson’s proposal in a mostly party-line vote, with a few Republicans and Democrats breaking ranks. However, the package is expected to face significant challenges in the Senate.
Senate Majority Leader Rejects the Proposal
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) has strongly criticized the aid package, calling it ”deeply flawed” and “not serious.” He has made it clear that the Senate will not take up the measure.
President Joe Biden has also expressed his stance, vowing to veto any Congress-passed package that does not include funding for Ukraine.
Despite the challenges, Johnson defended his proposal during an interview on “Fox News Sunday.”
Responding to criticism from Senator Schumer and reports of division among Republican leaders, Johnson expressed surprise and emphasized that the proposal fulfills the requested $14.5 billion.
He argued that the Senate’s opposition stems from the House’s approach of offsetting the spending with cuts instead of printing new dollars or borrowing from another nation.
Johnson stated, “We want to pay for it. What a concept! We’re trying to change how Washington works.”
Regarding concerns about the deficit, Johnson dismissed the Congressional Budget Office’s claims, highlighting the irony of cutting funding to pay for new spending.
Ukraine Aid
The White House has insisted on linking Israel and Ukraine aid, a move that House Republicans staunchly oppose.
Johnson, who previously voted against most Ukraine assistance packages, remains firmly opposed to a dual aid package. Instead, he plans to introduce separate bills for Israel and Ukraine aid.
Republicans, including Johnson, have proposed a compromise deal that includes increased funding for Ukraine in exchange for provisions and funding to enhance security at the U.S.–Mexico border. However, this plan has faced pushback, particularly from Democrats.
Johnson defended the proposal, emphasizing that it aligns with the priorities of the American people and the need to secure the southern border.
He argued, “When you couple Ukraine and the border, that makes sense to people because they say if we’re going to protect Ukraine’s border … we have to take care of our own border first. And that’s what we’re saying, [these are] policy changes that are necessary.”
Johnson also highlighted the growing consensus in Congress about the importance of improving border security.
Congress will reconvene this week with the fate of both aid packages still uncertain. Additionally, the possibility of a government shutdown looms if lawmakers fail to pass appropriations bills or a second stopgap measure by Nov. 17.
How does Johnson respond to criticism from Democrats regarding supporting Israel
And disappointment. He emphasized the importance of the aid package for Israel and the need for bipartisan support.
Johnson argued that the $14 billion aid package is crucial for maintaining the United States’ relationship with Israel, a key ally in the Middle East. He highlighted Israel’s strategic position and the shared values and interests between the two countries.
Furthermore, Johnson defended the funding offset by emphasizing the need to prioritize national security. He argued that reallocating funds from the IRS would have minimal impact on its operations, while providing essential support to Israel’s defense.
Addressing criticism from Democrats, Johnson acknowledged their concerns but maintained that supporting Israel is in the best interest of the United States. He stressed the importance of standing united against shared threats in the region, such as Iran’s nuclear ambitions and terrorism.
Regarding Majority Leader Schumer’s rejection of the proposal, Johnson expressed disappointment but remained hopeful for future discussions. He called for constructive dialogue and urged both parties to put aside partisan differences in support of Israel.
President Joe Biden’s stance on the aid package was also addressed by Johnson. While understanding the President’s focus on funding for Ukraine, Johnson emphasized the importance of prioritizing aid to Israel as well.
In conclusion, House Speaker Mike Johnson passionately defended the $14 billion aid package for Israel amid criticism from the Senate and White House. He stressed the significance of supporting Israel as a key ally and highlighted the shared interests and values between the two countries. Johnson called for bipartisan support and constructive dialogue to overcome the challenges ahead.
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