This morning, Speaker Johnson appeared on NBC’s Meet the Press with Kristen Welker to discuss several pressing issues. The topics included House Republicans’ demand for transparency regarding the Epstein files, Medicaid reforms in the One Big Beautiful Bill, and Israel’s efforts to deliver aid into Gaza.
Regarding the Epstein files, Speaker Johnson emphasized that House Republicans are committed to releasing all credible evidence while protecting innocent victims. He criticized the Massie-Khanna discharge petition as reckless, arguing it lacks necessary protections for victims and could lead to the release of false information. “What we did do this week is end the chaos in the Rules Committee because the Democrats are trying to use this in a shameless manner for political purposes quite obviously,” Johnson stated.
On Medicaid reforms, Johnson clarified that the One Big Beautiful Bill aims to strengthen rather than cut Medicaid by addressing fraud and abuse. The bill introduces work requirements, which he described as popular among the public. “Medicaid is a safety net program… And those resources are being drained because you had able-bodied young men, for example, with no dependents who are riding the wagon,” he explained.
Discussing aid to Gaza, Johnson expressed concern over Hamas stealing food intended for those in need. He noted that Israel has provided substantial food supplies but highlighted that Hamas profited significantly from stolen aid. “The UN needs to work with Israel to make sure that the food is getting to the people that need it most,” he urged.
Johnson concluded by expressing support for President Trump’s peace efforts in the region and mentioned new distribution channels being opened by Israel and supported by international bodies.
