Speaker Mike Johnson clashed head-on with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer over a $14 billion bill aimed at strengthening Israel’s defense against Hamas. The Louisiana Republican, who took office just nine days ago, bypassed a bipartisan approach, choosing instead to assert his conservative stance, sending a clear message to Schumer and the rest of the Democratic Party.
Schumer’s attempt to persuade Johnson to adopt a bipartisan approach fell on deaf ears. The Speaker’s decision to push forward with a bill that cut into a key Democratic priority has intensified the already strained relationship between the two leaders. Despite Schumer’s disapproval, Johnson proceeded with the legislation, indicating his willingness to challenge the Senate leader and maintain unity within the House GOP.
“This was not a bipartisan effort at all. He’s going to realize the hard way that this approach doesn’t work,” Schumer remarked in an interview, emphasizing that even President Biden had expressed his intent to veto the bill. Johnson’s move echoes his previous statement about limited Republican control in Washington, raising concerns about his commitment to collaboration.
While most senators are still getting acquainted with Johnson, House Republicans have rallied behind their new leader, praising his firm stance on Israel aid. Representative Don Bacon (R-Neb.) acknowledged Schumer’s need to compromise, stating, “[Schumer] can meet us halfway.”
As Johnson navigates his newfound leadership role, he faces a crucial decision. He must choose between embracing compromise with Schumer, an inevitability given the looming deadlines, or maintaining a hardline stance against compromise, particularly regarding aid and government funding, ahead of the November 17 shutdown deadline.
Schumer criticized the House GOP’s Israel aid plan as “not serious.” Nonetheless, Johnson’s supporters applaud his willingness to challenge the Democrats, demonstrating a level of assertiveness rarely seen during former Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s tenure.
The disparity in experience between Johnson and Schumer adds an intriguing element to their negotiations. Johnson’s relative newness to the spotlight of Hill leadership provides him with an air of mystery, enabling him to approach Schumer with an unpredictability that could work to his advantage.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Johnson’s strategies, the Speaker’s allies highlight his firm stance on the Israel aid bill, where he balanced fulfilling the White House’s $14.3 billion aid request for Israel with cutting IRS funds from Biden’s signature policy bill. This strategic move allowed him to establish a negotiating position and gain traction without facing internal opposition.
However, Johnson’s approach has polarized opinions within Congress. Democrats, including Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), expressed concerns about an inexperienced speaker exacerbating congressional dysfunction, especially during a crisis. With the Senate set to push for a more comprehensive Israel-Ukraine bill, Johnson’s ability to garner bipartisan support will be put to the test.
Despite the challenges ahead, Johnson’s determination to lead the House GOP with a strong conservative agenda has become evident. His refusal to back down against Schumer’s pressure showcases his resolve. As both sides prepare for intense negotiations, the outcome will ultimately depend on the Speaker’s ability to bridge the divide and secure bipartisan support, an essential requirement for any legislation to become law.
