Shreveport Reporter

WASHINGTON — This morning, Speaker Johnson joined Mike & McCarty on 710 KEEL in Shreveport and Talk Louisiana in Baton Rouge to provide an update on Congress’ work regarding border security, support for allies, and election integrity. He also addressed Louisiana redistricting and the 2024 election.

On border security, Johnson highlighted the challenges faced by his party: "We have the smallest majority in only one chamber of Congress. I have a one-vote margin, right? So I can pass things in the House, but it doesn't mean it's going to become law because the progressive Democrats run the White House and the Senate." He emphasized that despite efforts such as impeaching Secretary Mayorkas at the Department of Homeland Security, broader legislative success has been elusive due to opposition from Democrats.

Johnson discussed funding issues related to government operations: "Chuck Schumer and the Democrats, and Joe Biden dared us. They wanted us to not fund the government and shut it down because they knew it'd be blamed on Republicans." He stressed that growing their majority is crucial for future successes: "We must have an election cycle to fix this thing."

Regarding support for Israel, Johnson mentioned his efforts to invite Prime Minister Netanyahu to address Congress: "I had a letter going back to mid-March to invite Prime Minister Netanyahu... But Chuck Schumer has been trying to play both sides." After facing delays from Schumer, Johnson decided to act independently: "I called his bluff last week... finally he relented." He expects Netanyahu's visit soon.

On election integrity, Johnson criticized current processes allowing non-citizens potential access to voting benefits through welfare offices. He cited proposed legislation aimed at addressing this issue: "We have a law called the SAVE Act... It'll be passed through the house very shortly since the Senate."

Addressing Louisiana redistricting and its implications for upcoming elections, Johnson defended existing Congressional maps as constitutional despite recent judicial interventions. He noted logistical concerns with new districts but remained optimistic about Republican prospects: "As house speaker, it is my duty is [sic] to do everything in my power to maintain and grow the House Republican majority."

Johnson concluded by expressing confidence in Louisiana's Republican delegation: "Of course in Louisiana... Five are Republican... We need to keep all of them."

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