3:31 p.m. ET, October 25, 2023
Biden Applauds Johnson’s Election and Urges Quick Action from Congress
President Joe Biden holds a press conference with Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese in the Rose Garden at the White House on October 25, 2023 in Washington, DC.
Drew Angerer/Getty Images
President Joe Biden responded on Wednesday to the election of Louisiana Republican Rep. Mike Johnson as House speaker, offering his congratulations and urging Congress to take immediate action to address national security concerns and prevent a government shutdown in 22 days.
“While House Republicans spent the last 22 days determining who would lead their conference, I have worked on those pressing issues, proposing a historic supplemental funding package that advances our bipartisan national security interests in Israel and Ukraine, secures our border, and invests in the American people,” Biden stated. “These priorities have received support from leaders in both parties.”
In his statement, Biden acknowledged that there are “real disagreements about important issues,” but emphasized the need for a mutual effort to find common ground whenever possible.
“This is a time for all of us to act responsibly and prioritize the needs of the American people and everyday American families over any partisan differences,” he added.
Earlier in the day, Biden reassured reporters that he is not concerned about Johnson’s potential to overturn a Biden victory in 2024. He referenced multiple lawsuits filed by former President Donald Trump to contest the election results, which were ultimately dismissed by the Supreme Court.
“Because he can’t – look, just like I was not worried that the last guy would be able to overturn the election,” Biden said during a news conference in the Rose Garden. “They had about 60 lawsuits, and it went all the way to the Supreme Court – every time they lost. I understand the Constitution.”
