Speaker Johnson Pitches Solution To Solve Border Crisis and Ukraine Aid at the Same Time

Original article here.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, representing Louisiana, made a compelling case on a recent “Fox News Sunday” appearance for tying aid to Ukraine with bolstering security at the U.S.-Mexico border.

“We have to take care of our own border first,” Johnson stated, addressing the criticism from Democratic congressional caucus chairs who accused Republicans of exploiting foreign conflicts to advance their immigration agenda.

“What this is about is advancing the agenda and first priorities of the American people. I don’t know which Democrat gave you that absurd quote, but they clearly are not listening to their constituents,” Johnson told host Shannon Bream. He argued that Americans recognize the need for domestic security as a priority, even as they acknowledge the country’s role in global leadership and the necessity to support Ukraine against Russian aggression.

Johnson highlighted a “growing consensus in Congress” that recognizes the urgency of addressing the situation at the border. He pointed to the more than 6.3 million illegal crossings since the current administration took office, a number surpassing the population of Louisiana. He expressed a firm Republican commitment to halting the influx of illegal substances and human trafficking facilitated by cartels.

Working through the weekend on a stopgap measure, Johnson acknowledged the possibility that all appropriations bills might not be completed by the November 17 deadline. He emphasized the need for a continuing resolution that would allow the appropriations process to continue, reflecting a commitment to transparency and accountability in government.

In response to a large anti-Israel demonstration in Washington, D.C., Johnson expressed concern over the rise of antisemitism.

He defended the House’s proposal for immediate funding for Israel, which faced criticism from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer for not including humanitarian aid for Gaza. Johnson advocated for fiscal responsibility, suggesting reallocating funds from the IRS budget to support Israel, prioritizing strategic allies over expanding domestic tax enforcement.