House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul commended House Speaker Mike Johnson for bringing foreign aid legislation to the floor, labeling it as “a profile in courage.” The $95 billion foreign aid package that included aid to Israel, Ukraine, and the Indo-Pacific was passed by the House in four separate bills, with the hope that it will be compiled into one amendment and sent to the Senate for a vote on Tuesday. Johnson faced pressure to pass support for allies abroad as far-right allies threatened to strip him of his position due to his reliance on Democrats to pass foreign aid.
A group of hardline Republicans, led by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, have criticized Johnson for working with Democrats to pass the foreign aid legislation. Despite this opposition, Johnson, a devout Christian, prayed as he grappled with the political consequences of his decision to bring the package to the House floor. The urgent need for aid, especially to Ukraine, was highlighted by McCaul as the House faced a critical decision on where to allocate resources – the US southern border or countries like Ukraine. McCaul emphasized the importance of the House making the right decision in the eyes of the world, its adversaries, and history.
McCaul has questioned his colleagues by asking whether they wish to be seen as a Chamberlain or a Churchill in debates over continuing to provide aid to Ukraine in its fight against Russia. The successful passage of the aid bills by Johnson was seen as a significant victory, but there remains a threat to his speakership by the far-right faction of the party. Despite this, McCaul believes that Johnson has gained respect from both sides of the aisle and that his job is not in jeopardy following the successful vote. The House could face further chaos if Johnson is ousted from his position.
Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales also praised Johnson’s role in passing the legislation, emphasizing the importance of governing in an honorable way. Gonzales, who represents a district along the southern border, expressed confidence in Johnson’s ability to withstand threats to his speakership. Former President Donald Trump, who has been opposed to Ukraine aid in the past, has not commented publicly on the aid package passed by the House. McCaul believes that Trump’s ultimate goal is to provide a lifeline to Ukraine, allowing for negotiation and assistance once back in office. The story continues to develop as additional updates are being reported.
