Republican hardliners are voicing their discontent with House Speaker Mike Johnson's intricate strategy to advance billions in foreign aid to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. This development underscores the likelihood that Democratic support will be necessary to salvage the plan.
Despite the absence of the plan's text, House Democrats are deliberating whether to support Johnson's initiative or push back and urge Republicans to consider the $95 billion Senate package that has been sidelined for two months. House Democrats are scheduled to convene on Tuesday morning to discuss the matter.
One of the initial hurdles facing Johnson is securing approval for the rule that governs floor debate, a procedural requirement for passing legislation by a majority vote. While historically these rules have been endorsed along party lines, GOP divisions have led to the derailing of rules seven times in this Congress, impeding the legislative agenda.
Notably, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia has declared her intention to vote against the rule, with several other Republicans still contemplating their stance. Members such as Republican Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky have also voiced opposition to the plan.
This resistance from within the Republican ranks signals the potential necessity for Democratic support to uphold the rule, a scenario that could expose Johnson to criticism from the disgruntled right wing.
In his announcement on Monday, the Louisiana Republican anticipated a House vote on the separate bills to take place on Friday evening.
