After their meeting, Senate Republicans expressed strong support for House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) as he embarks on his new role. However, Johnson’s stance on spending cuts and aid to Israel and Ukraine has caused divisions within the party, potentially hindering progress on important issues like defending democracies abroad and ensuring the federal government remains open.
Johnson’s conservative ideology aligns with the right-wing faction in the Senate Republican conference, which has clashed with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.). McConnell, known for fiercely pursuing party goals, has recently aligned with President Biden and the Senate Democratic majority on key domestic and international priorities, such as bipartisan bills for government funding and aid to Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan.
Johnson’s recent bill, which allocated $14.3 billion in aid to Israel without funding for Ukraine, has been met with opposition in the Democratic-controlled Senate. McConnell, in line with Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer’s (D-N.Y.) position, supports pairing aid for Ukraine and Taiwan with the Israel funds, along with changes to U.S. border policy. This disagreement suggests that Johnson may not receive substantial support from Senate Republicans.
As the year comes to a close, both McConnell and Johnson face challenges in navigating critical legislation. Johnson must compromise to pass bills through the Democratic-controlled Senate, but faces pressure from his own members, who have shown a willingness to remove leaders and who have yet to overcome tensions from the recent speakership battle. McConnell, known for his tight grip on his conference, must manage growing criticism from conservative members and address conflicts within his party.
The outcome of these challenges has significant implications for both McConnell and Johnson. McConnell faces pressure not to provide Republican votes for legislation unsupported by Johnson. Meanwhile, Johnson has less flexibility with his own members and must contend with their demands for conservative measures. Both leaders must find ways to address key legislation, including the farm bill, federal aviation, Pentagon spending, and foreign intelligence surveillance.
Despite potential clashes, Johnson and McConnell have found common ground and maintain communication. McConnell recognizes the limitations of Johnson’s position and understands the clash is more between institutions rather than leaders. Additionally, the Senate’s defense hawks are pleased with Johnson’s commitment to passing an aid bill for Ukraine, as long as it includes U.S. border provisions.
The next steps for Johnson remain uncertain, as House Republicans are unsure of his course of action should an aid bill for Israel return to them.
