Staff Reports
In a bold move, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La.) has called for the termination of dozens of Biden administration employees planning a walkout to protest President Biden's handling of the war in Gaza. These federal employees, representing 22 different agencies and united under the name "Feds United for Peace," intend to walk out on Tuesday to mark the 100th day of Israel's campaign in Gaza.
Speaker Johnson did not mince words in expressing his disapproval of the planned walkout. He firmly believes that any government worker abandoning their duties to protest U.S. support for Israel is neglecting their responsibilities and betraying the trust of American taxpayers. He advocates for appropriate disciplinary measures against these employees and asserts that they deserve to be fired.
Mike Johnson calls for Biden employees to be fired over Israel protest – Conservative Institute – absolutely! https://t.co/Vx17iTZou8
— perfecto m fernandez (@perfectomfernan) January 16, 2024
The pressure on President Biden from the left is notable, as he has faced regular protests demanding a cease-fire in Gaza and has been criticized on the campaign trail for perceived support of "genocide." Dissent has even permeated within the White House and his re-election campaign, with anonymous backlash against his handling of the Gaza conflict.
Organizers of the walkout emphasize that it is not a strike but a day of mourning and healing. They argue that they serve the American people with conviction and pride every day and view the walkout as a means to influence the Biden administration's policy on the Gaza conflict. However, Speaker Johnson remains steadfast in his belief that such actions constitute a dereliction of duty and will not be tolerated.
President Biden himself has faced criticism, notably when he stated in South Carolina that he is pushing Israel to "get out" of Gaza, drawing disapproval from conservatives advocating unwavering support for the ally. The pressure from both the left and the right is increasing, placing Biden in a political crossfire.
Despite facing challenges within his own party, particularly threats of removal from the right-wing for compromising on spending, Speaker Johnson presses ahead with a $1.6 trillion agreement while Congress finalizes the 2024 budget. Simultaneously, he supports a short-term resolution to keep the government running during ongoing negotiations.
The outcome of the standoff between Speaker Johnson and the walkout organizers remains uncertain. However, the escalating tensions on both sides of the aisle indicate that the debate over U.S. support for Israel is far from reaching a resolution.
