Representative Mike Johnson, a low-profile congressman from a deeply red district, was known for his hard-line stances on issues such as aid to Ukraine, government funding bills, and surveillance programs. However, since becoming Speaker of the House, Johnson has changed his position on several key issues, causing outrage among right-wing lawmakers. Despite his previous opposition, Johnson is now working to advance bills to send aid to Ukraine, keep the government open, and make changes to the surveillance program.
As Speaker, Johnson has found himself embracing bills he once opposed in order to meet the basic demands of governing and maintain bipartisan support. With a slim majority and a deeply divided conference, Johnson has had to use procedures that require bipartisan support for bills to pass, a departure from traditional House rules. He has described his approach as a slow grind offensive strategy, focusing on building consensus and passing modest conservative wins.
In recent legislative efforts, Johnson has secured funding for detention beds run by ICE, Border Patrol agents, and cuts to foreign aid programs. He has also discussed tying aid for Ukraine to measures that would advance Republican goals, such as reversing a moratorium on LNG permits and cutting off Russian income from gas sales. Johnson has also proposed reforms to surveillance laws, though his bill does not include all the reforms some of his colleagues have sought.
Despite these efforts, Johnson’s decisions have faced backlash from the right flank of his party. His vow to pass aid to Ukraine has angered members who oppose such funding, especially Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene. Greene has threatened to oust Johnson over his support for sending aid to Ukraine, citing his previous opposition to such measures. Johnson has defended his position by emphasizing the importance of standing by allies and sending a strong signal to terrorists and tyrants.
In the face of opposition from his own party, Johnson has continued to navigate the challenges of governing and passing legislation with a slim majority. He has focused on building consensus and securing modest conservative wins, while also seeking to advance key policy goals. Despite the controversy surrounding his recent decisions, Johnson remains committed to fulfilling his duties as Speaker and addressing the pressing issues facing the country.
