New Dem Chair on Election of Far-Right Extremist Mike Johnson as Speaker
Today, New Democrat Coalition (NDC) Chair Annie Kuster (NH-02) released a statement following the election of Mike Johnson as the 56th Speaker of the House. Johnson led over 100 House Republicans in filing an amicus brief with the Supreme Court seeking to overturn the 2020 election. As recently as last night, Johnson refused to acknowledge whether Joe Biden is the legitimately elected President of the United States.
“Nearly a month after the House GOP ousted their own Speaker, Republicans have chosen a far-right fringe Member of their conference to hold one of the most powerful offices in the country.
“Mike Johnson — Republicans’ fifth choice for Speaker in less than a year — is a danger to both our domestic and national security. He was a key architect in the attempt to overturn the 2020 election, has voted against codifying same-sex marriage and protecting legal access to contraception, spearheaded efforts to cut programs like Social Security and Medicare, and supports a nationwide ban on abortion with no exceptions for rape, incest, or life of the mother.
“Importantly, Johnson also opposes aid for Ukraine at a pivotal moment when continued American support is essential to defending their democracy. On top of that, his plan for the 118th Congress leaves out assistance for Israel in their fight against Hamas and humanitarian aid for Gaza and fails to address our southern border.
“After weeks of dysfunction, House Republicans have elevated a man who disregards personal freedoms, the safety of our allies, and American democracy to be second in line to the presidency.
“As New Dems, we will continue fighting for what is right, even in the face of chaos. Republicans had a choice: continue down the far-right path that has paralyzed Congress, or finally choose reason over extremism. Unfortunately, they have gone with the former.
“But in a closely divided government, bipartisanship is still the only way we can fund the government, support our allies, and tackle key priorities like lowering costs, growing the middle class, and securing our border. While New Dems sincerely hope this new Speaker will put partisanship aside to deliver for the American people and our allies, we fully reject this extremist approach to governing.”
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