Speaker Mike Johnson has faced recent accolades for defying the right wing of his party and allowing an aid bill for Ukraine to move forward in the House, but this move was not unlike former Vice President Mike Pence’s refusal to overturn the 2020 election results despite pressure from hard-right Republicans and an angry mob on January 6, 2021. Both men compromised their Christian principles to accommodate former President Trump and the forces he unleashed in their party. However, when faced with intense pressure, both Johnson and Pence ultimately chose a more difficult path that went against the norms of today’s Republican Party.
Johnson is now facing backlash from the right wing of his party, with calls for his ouster emerging even after he appeared to have Trump’s support initially. Similarly, Pence’s short-lived presidential campaign struggled to gain traction after he broke with Trump. Both men have been encouraged by their shared Christian faith in difficult moments, with Pence even offering private support to Johnson as he faced discontent from the far right. Despite facing criticism, they both ultimately chose to do what they believed was the right thing, even if it meant defying the expectations of their party.
The move to pass the Ukraine aid bill through the House received praise from both Democrats and Republicans, with Representative Mario Diaz-Balart commending Johnson’s fortitude and character in moving ahead despite obstacles. A group of former members of Congress and foreign affairs experts also expressed gratitude for Johnson’s leadership, recognizing the importance of defending freedom and confronting tyranny. Even President Zelensky of Ukraine thanked the House, including Johnson, for their decision, highlighting the crucial role that the aid played in keeping history on the right track.
Despite the positive response to his actions, not everyone was eager to heap praise on Johnson, with some Democrats like Representative Jim McGovern emphasizing that doing his job should not warrant special recognition. Minority leader Hakeem Jeffries refrained from offering credit to Johnson, instead focusing on the importance of meeting the needs of the American people and standing by democratic allies. Former Trump administration aide Alyssa Farah Griffin noted that Johnson’s delay in moving ahead on Ukraine aid had real consequences, with Ukrainians suffering as a result.
Ultimately, Johnson stated that history judges individuals based on their actions, emphasizing his belief in doing what he felt was right. Despite this assertion, his indecision and desire to appeal to the far right led to concerns that he may not take the necessary action. While some pointed out that Johnson signed up for a challenging role as Republican speaker, it remains to be seen how his decision to move forward with the Ukraine aid bill will impact his career and the dynamics within the Republican Party.
