Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) criticized Vice President Kamala Harris on Monday, questioning her ability to inspire fear among the nation’s international adversaries. During an interview on “Fox & Friends” with Brian Kilmeade, Johnson argued that Harris, like President Biden, fails to instill the necessary deterrence against foreign threats.
Johnson expressed concern about the prospect of Harris leading the U.S. military, labeling the current global climate as the most perilous since World War II and emphasizing that the country cannot afford such a leadership scenario.
Johnson championed former President Trump as a figure who commands respect and fear on the global stage. He asserted that Trump’s leadership is essential, claiming that Trump’s presence in the White House would better safeguard national interests.
Trump’s approach to foreign policy, often described as aggressive and unpredictable, is frequently highlighted by his supporters. They argue that adversaries are deterred by the potential consequences of confronting Trump.
Trump has previously claimed that Russia would not have invaded Ukraine under his presidency and suggested that the Middle East conflict might have been averted with his leadership.
On the other hand, Democrats have criticized Trump for his past favorable interactions with autocratic leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, whom he recently hosted at Mar-a-Lago.
Additionally, Trump’s foreign policy stance has raised concerns among U.S. allies, particularly regarding his isolationist tendencies. His threats to withhold defense support from European allies who do not meet defense spending commitments have stirred debate within NATO.
Trump has also promised to resolve the Ukraine conflict swiftly, raising fears about the potential implications for Russian territory. Trump has suggested that Taiwan should financially contribute to its own defense against potential threats.