Staff Reports
House Speaker Mike Johnson adamantly rejected the foreign aid and border security package negotiated in the Senate, labeling it as "dead on arrival" and asserting that it would face staunch opposition in the House of Representatives. Speaking to Fox News, Johnson outlined the deficiencies of the legislation and outlined why it failed to meet the standards of House Republicans.
Johnson argued that the bill would worsen the issue of illegal immigration by creating further incentives for it. He criticized its failure to address the flaws in the asylum system and parole process, which have contributed to the ongoing border crisis. Johnson emphasized that the American people were in agreement with their stance, recognizing the detrimental impact of the Biden administration's immigration policies.
‘I mean dead on arrival’: Mike Johnson doubles down on blocking border bill https://t.co/7iBcxNVwfo
— Bo Snerdley (@BoSnerdley) February 6, 2024
Adding to the controversy, Johnson condemned President Biden's threat to veto a standalone aid bill for Israel. With Israel fighting to defend itself and American forces involved in efforts to deter Iran, Johnson criticized Biden for considering abandoning such a critical ally. He stressed the importance of standing by Israel during its time of need.
Furthermore, Johnson pointed out that the president already possesses the authority to secure the border under existing law. He urged Biden to utilize this authority, specifically citing Section 212 of the immigration and nationality act, which allows for the suspension of all entries into the country if deemed necessary for national interest. Johnson argued that the president should take decisive action to address the border crisis.
Responding to Senator James Lankford's assertion that opposition to the bill was driven by misinformation, Johnson reiterated his stance that the legislation was unequivocally "dead on arrival." He underscored the importance of representing the concerns of the American people and believed that a majority understood the urgency of addressing the border situation.
Johnson's steadfast opposition to the Senate's foreign aid and border security package demonstrated his commitment to conservative principles and his resolve to safeguard American interests. He maintained that the bill would be detrimental and emphasized the need to prioritize the welfare of the American people and secure the border to prevent further harm to the nation.
