Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana has revealed legislative text for three bills aimed at combining military assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and allies in the Indo-Pacific with humanitarian aid for Gaza and other global conflict zones. This move comes despite intense pressure and political tension surrounding the allocation of aid overseas.
These bills are part of Johnson’s strategy to negotiate foreign aid through the House, a process that has been delayed due to competing priorities and recent backlash.
Despite facing criticism from conservative members of his party, Johnson is determined to push forward with his proposal, which has garnered support from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, as well as the White House and Ukrainian officials.
Mike Johnson (Credits: Axios)
In response to concerns from the right flank, Johnson plans to introduce a fourth bill containing additional national security provisions, including a TikTok ban, utilizing seized Russian assets to fund aid, and imposing sanctions against Russia, China, and Iran.
These measures will be bundled together under one procedural rule to allow for an amendment process. In a departure from his initial plan, Johnson will also introduce a separate border security measure, incorporating elements from a previous House Republican bill.
This decision aims to address the concerns of conservatives who viewed the exclusion of border provisions as a serious oversight. Despite Johnson’s efforts to appease critics, particularly within his own party, some conservatives remain skeptical of the proposed foreign aid package.
Johnson Mike (Credits: The Hill)
The inclusion of humanitarian aid for Gaza, Ukraine, and other conflict zones has drawn opposition from many Republicans, complicating the path to passage in the House. Nevertheless, Democrats have signaled their support for Johnson’s approach, recognizing the importance of American leadership in addressing global challenges.
Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a senior Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, endorsed the first three bills, emphasizing the need to protect vulnerable populations and uphold American values on the world stage.
