Rep. Mike Lawler, a moderate Republican from New York, expressed optimism on Sunday that a vote on funding for Ukraine’s war effort could land on the House floor when members return from recess early next month. Divisions in the House GOP have so far stymied progress on sending aid to the key US ally.
Lawler, a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine, stating, 'Certainly, this is critically important for our allies. We are the leader of the free world, and we cannot shirk on our responsibility to uphold and defend democracies across the globe.'
Lawler, along with co-sponsors Democratic Rep. Jared Golden of Maine and Republican Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, are pushing a discharge petition to allow for a vote on their bill, which combines Ukraine and border security funding. Lawler expressed hope that the bill or an amended version would be brought to the floor for a vote to ensure support for US allies.
House Intelligence Committee Chair Mike Turner indicated that passing supplemental aid to Ukraine will be a top priority upon Congress' return, with Speaker Mike Johnson showing support for the initiative. However, Johnson faces challenges within his party, with some far-right Republicans opposing new aid to Ukraine.
The debate over combining foreign aid with border provisions has been contentious, with Senate Republicans previously blocking a bipartisan deal that included aid for US allies and border measures. The Senate later passed a standalone foreign aid bill, but Johnson initially declined to bring it up for a vote.
Despite internal party tensions, there are indications that Johnson may consider a package that includes foreign aid and border restrictions, potentially after finalizing a government funding deal. Lawler criticized efforts to oust Johnson, calling them 'idiotic' and emphasizing the need for unity within the House Republican majority.
The upcoming vote on Ukraine aid will be closely watched as lawmakers navigate complex political dynamics and strive to provide crucial support to a key US ally in the face of Russian aggression.
