Staff Reports
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) expressed his strong criticism of President Joe Biden’s recent speech in which he blamed former President Donald Trump and “MAGA Republicans” for the border crisis. Johnson called the speech “offensive” and stated that the American people are not buying Biden’s attempt to shift blame. Johnson pointed out that Biden’s approval rating is low, with only 18 percent of Americans approving of his handling of the border crisis.
Johnson also highlighted his efforts to address the border crisis, including pressing Biden in White House meetings and official correspondence. He emphasized that Biden has the executive authority to take action and fix the problem, but he refuses to do so. Johnson stressed that the responsibility lies solely with Biden and called on him to take ownership of the crisis.
Exclusive — Speaker Mike Johnson: Biden Speech Blaming Trump, ‘MAGA Republicans’ for Border Was ‘Offensive’ https://t.co/GQOO1Uojzx
— Mike (@gupdiver) February 8, 2024
Furthermore, Johnson and Senate Republicans, including Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, played a role in derailing a Senate funding package that included aid to Ukraine and Israel. Johnson criticized the package and declared it “worse” than expected. Republicans threatened to filibuster the bill, forcing its abandonment. In response to the collapse of the proposal, Biden criticized Trump and “MAGA Republicans,” claiming they blindly follow Trump.
Johnson argued that Biden intentionally undermined border security from day one of his presidency. He listed numerous executive actions taken by Biden that opened up the border, including halting construction of the border wall and announcing a ban on deportations. Johnson characterized the border crisis as a catastrophe created by Biden’s deliberate actions.
In conclusion, Johnson found Biden’s speech offensive and believed it would have serious consequences for Biden in the upcoming election cycle. He saw the election as a referendum on border security and national security at large. Johnson pledged to continue fighting to hold the Biden administration accountable, including pursuing the impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, whom he labeled the worst cabinet secretary in American history.
