House Speaker Mike Johnson recently found himself at the center of a campaign controversy after suggesting that the GOP could “probably” seek to repeal the CHIPS Act if Republicans regain control of Congress and Donald Trump reclaims the White House. His comments, made during a campaign stop in Syracuse, New York, have sparked debate over the GOP’s commitment to semiconductor manufacturing and economic growth in Central New York. By the end of the day, Johnson walked back his statement, emphasizing his support for semiconductor development and clarifying that repealing the CHIPS Act is “not on the agenda.”
Campaign Trail Gaffe in Syracuse
Johnson’s initial remarks came as he joined GOP Rep. Brandon Williams, one of the party’s most vulnerable incumbents, in a crucial campaign event. When asked about the CHIPS and Science Act, which passed in 2022 and aims to boost U.S. semiconductor manufacturing, Johnson said Republicans “probably will” try to repeal the legislation if given the chance. The act is set to bring a massive $100 billion investment in microchip manufacturing, including a plant in Syracuse by the tech giant Micron.
Williams, who faces a tight race against Democratic state Senator John Mannion, quickly countered Johnson’s statement. “I’ll remind (Johnson) night and day how important the CHIPS Act is,” he asserted, emphasizing its significant impact on Central New York’s economy. Williams later reported that Johnson apologized, explaining he misheard the question and expressing regret over the misunderstanding.
Johnson Clarifies Position on CHIPS Act
Hours later, Johnson released a statement clarifying his support for Micron’s investment in Central New York. “As I have further explained and clarified, I fully support Micron coming to Central NY, and the CHIPS Act is not on the agenda for repeal,” Johnson said, suggesting that future GOP-led legislation might aim to streamline the act rather than dismantle it. He specifically noted concerns about the act’s “Green New Deal requirements” and costly regulations, proposing potential reforms instead of outright repeal.
The CHIPS and Science Act represents a major commitment to securing U.S. leadership in semiconductor manufacturing, allocating over $200 billion over five years to help U.S. companies regain their footing in a global industry long dominated by Asian manufacturers. Proponents argue it is essential for bolstering domestic supply chains, driving down chip prices, and minimizing supply disruptions.
A Key Moment for Rep. Brandon Williams
Johnson’s comments have intensified the stakes in the Syracuse area, where Williams is campaigning for re-election. The district, a competitive battleground, has seen Democrats pour millions into the race. Mannion, Williams’ Democratic challenger, has framed Johnson’s comments as proof that the GOP would eliminate crucial investments in Central New York. In a post on X, Mannion criticized Johnson’s alignment with Trump, asserting, “In Congress, I’ll defend CHIPS and Science and keep the investments coming home to Central New York and the Mohawk Valley.”
A Potentially Sensitive Issue for the GOP
While Johnson’s comments may have been intended as a nod to fiscal conservatives wary of the CHIPS Act’s environmental provisions, his statement has highlighted a delicate balancing act. He later clarified that his primary objection was to the “Green New Deal” programs bundled within the legislation rather than the act’s core goal of promoting U.S. chip production. “We’re going to support chip manufacturing, we do not support the Green New Deal,” he added, emphasizing the need to decouple these issues in future legislative debates.
