Several swing-district House Republicans have expressed their support for Speaker Mike Johnson's handling of the foreign aid bills, while also criticizing those who have opposed him.
Republican Rep. Marc Molinaro, a freshman lawmaker from New York facing a tough reelection battle, emphasized the importance of doing what is right after consulting with his constituents. He commended Speaker Johnson for the delay in holding votes on aid for key allies such as Israel and Ukraine, citing the need to navigate the complexities of a divided Congress and build bipartisan consensus.
Molinaro cautioned against efforts to remove Johnson from his position, reminding detractors that Congress is tasked with serving the interests of the nation as a whole, not just individual preferences.
Similarly, Rep. Jen Kiggans of Virginia, another vulnerable Republican, lauded Speaker Johnson for his leadership in advancing the foreign aid package. She highlighted the bipartisan cooperation that was evident during the proceedings and stressed the importance of unity in addressing critical issues.
Kiggans expressed disappointment with certain members of the GOP who have advocated for Johnson's removal, characterizing them as isolationist and lacking in support for key allies. She emphasized the significance of standing with partners and allies on the global stage.
The statements from these swing-district House Republicans underscore the divisions within the party regarding foreign aid policy and the leadership of Speaker Johnson. As debates continue within the GOP, the broader implications for U.S. foreign relations and bipartisan cooperation remain at the forefront of discussions in Congress.