It was reported by the Associated Press today that House Speaker Mike Johnson took a strong stand before a bipartisan Senate against a deal that would group border security measures and Ukrainian aid.
WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 12: U.S. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) reads a statement to members of the press at the U.S. Capitol on January 12, 2024 in Washington, DC. Far-right House Republicans are threatening to shut down the government on January 19 unless their demands for President Biden to enact stricter border laws are met. (Photo by Kent Nishimura/Getty Images)
"Dead On Arrival"
The Louisiana senator said the legislation would be "Dead on arrival in the house". However, there have not been any official texts of the bill and only minor leaks. But this has not stopped Republicans from sharing their criticisms. In a letter "Rather than accept accountability, President Biden is now trying to blame Congress for what HE himself intentionally created".
Johnson's message fueled the embers facing the border and Ukraine deal, which closes in a week. However, Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has shown that he is supportive of pairing border measures with Ukraine. Senator Ted Cruz had some words regarding the bill stating, "This bill represents Senate Republican leadership waging war on House Republican leadership."
The diminishing chances of reaching a deal have presented Congressional leaders with a challenging path towards approving the White House's request for $110 billion in emergency funds. These funds are intended for Ukraine, Israel, border enforcement, and other national security needs.
President Joe Biden has reiterated that a top priority of his is the boosting of Ukraine's defense but now his administration has seemingly run out of funds. This has drawn criticism from Ukraine supporters, with them pointing out that the impasse in Congress can already be felt on battlefields and many soldiers are seemingly outgunned. HNGN recently reported that Ukraine's air defense capabilities are already under strain and have been calling for aid from allied countries. The outlet also covered the Pentagon addressing their dry budget for Ukraine.
Regarding border security Oklahoma Senator and lead GOP negotiator regarding border talks, James Lankford, has been urging lawmakers to hold their judgment on the bill until receiving legislative text and has said that some of its representation in conservative media does not accurately depict the bill itself. There were hopes to release the text next week, but the package has yet to be finalized.
