On Politics

Thu Nov 2 2023

Hey there, OnPolitics readers. It's been an eventful first week for new House Speaker Mike Johnson.

So far, the speaker unveiled a bill to send military assistance to Israel, though its unlikely to get far with the Democratic-controlled Senate and White House. Political infighting, including within his own party, is also taking up time for the new speaker, USA TODAY political reporter Ken Tran writes.

What else to know: The new speaker is more conservative than his predecessors, Tran reports. His record shows that he voted against Ukraine aid and codifying same-sex marriage. He also co-sponsored federal legislation to restrict abortion rights.

What's next: In his first formal press conference, Johnson outlined a wide-ranging agenda, including a goal to return to "fiscal responsibility." He acknowledged the need to avert a government shutdown by the Nov. 17 funding deadline, but not a plan.

"Johnson also teased a decision coming "very soon" from House Republicans on their ongoing impeachment inquiry into Biden over allegations he financially benefited from his son Hunter Biden's overseas business dealings," Tran writes.

Keep reading: Mike Johnson reveals House GOP agenda in first press conference as speaker

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