After an all-night filibuster by MAGA Republicans, early Tuesday morning the Senate passed a national security bill by a vote of 70-29. It includes help for Ukraine and Israel, as well as humanitarian aid for Gaza. Despite strong bipartisan support for the measure, Speaker Mike Johnson is refusing to bring it to the floor.
“There is no question that if the Senate bill was put on the floor in the House of Representatives, it would pass,” said President Biden. “So, I call on the Speaker to let the full House speak its mind and not allow a minority of the most extreme voices in the House to block this bill even from being voted on.” Even Freedom Caucus members have acknowledged publicly that the bill would pass if put to a vote.
Johnson’s stance reflects the realities: deep divisions within the GOP and a narrow margin of control that got even narrower last week. New Yorkers elected Democrat Tom Suozzi to fill the seat vacated by Republican George Santos, who was expelled by his colleagues and is facing a slew of criminal charges.
Republicans now control the House 219-213 (three seats are vacant). So Johnson can afford to lose just two votes if all members of the House are present.
Meanwhile, yet another budget deadline is fast approaching. Funding for 20% of the government runs out on March 1 and the rest, including education, a week later.
Tell Congress what you think!
In solidarity,
Marc Egan
Government Relations Director
National Education Association
