Politics
By Josh Christenson and Rich Calder
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) Successfully Defeats Far-Right Rebellion, Passes $95.3 Billion Aid Package
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) on Saturday crushed a putsch by far-right Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Republican rebels – pushing through a $95.3 billion aid package that funds the fight against Russia, the defense of Israel and resistance against China. The rare bipartisan effort was overwhelmingly approved by lawmakers, with all “nay” votes coming from Republicans, including Greene who was criticized by members of both major political parties.
Ukraine Aid
Lawmakers overwhelmingly approved the four-bill package, including one measure providing $60.8 billion for Ukraine. Approximately 80% of that money will go toward replenishing supplies of US-made weapons and ammunition and other direct military assistance. Another $9.5 billion will be provided as a forgivable loan.
Response to Greene
After the passage of the bill, Representative Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.) humorously responded to one of Greene’s social media posts, stating, “Putin’s Special Envoy to Congress already delivering for Mother Russia.” Moskowitz’s comment was prompted by Greene’s statement, “Mike Johnson’s House of Representatives so proud to work for Ukraine. Not the American people!!! It’s despicable.” Former Representative Ken Buck (R-Co.) also criticized Greene, stating, “Moscow Marjorie has reached a new low. She is just mouthing Russian propaganda.”
Purpose of the Aid Package
In a press conference, Johnson emphasized the necessity of the foreign aid package, stating, “Three of our primary adversaries, Russia, Iran, and China, are working together and are a global threat to our prosperity and our security. Their advance threatens the free world, and it demands American leadership.” He added, “If we turn our backs right now the consequences could be devastating. It’s an old military adage, but we would rather send bullets to the conflict overseas than our own boys, our troops.”
Aid Distribution
In addition to Ukraine, the aid package includes measures that provide $17 billion in military aid for Israel, $9 billion for Gaza and other war-torn regions, and $8.1 billion for Taiwan and other Indo-Pacific allies. Furthermore, the package supports Israel’s Iron Beam particle weapon, designed to use lasers to shoot down incoming drones and missiles. The bill, however, faced opposition from members on both the left and the right. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) and other progressive representatives, as well as Republican Representative Bob Good (R-Va.) and members of the Freedom Caucus, voted against the aid package.
Approval Process and Presidential Support
The aid package has been approved by the House and is expected to receive final Congressional approval on Tuesday when it is sent to the Senate. President Biden has expressed his intention to sign it into law. The Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) have both pressured Johnson to back a $95 billion bill approved by the Senate in February.
Reaction and Future Plans
The passage of the bill received mixed reviews. Anti-Israel protesters gathered outside the US Capitol to express their opposition to the aid package, while others showed their support for Ukraine. CIA Director William Burns warned about Ukraine’s urgent need for additional US military aid, as they could lose the war with Russia by the end of the year if they run out of ammunition. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his gratitude to Johnson and other House members for their support.
This aid package not only demonstrates bipartisan support in Congress but also reflects the US government’s commitment to its allies. The article also highlights the opposition faced from lawmakers on both sides of the political spectrum and provides insight into the purpose and distribution of the aid. Overall, the passing of the aid package signifies the US’s dedication to global stability and the support of its allies.
