House Speaker Mike Johnson has defended his preferred strategy to advance President-elect Donald Trump’s ambitious legislative agenda in one bill, instead of dividing priorities into separate bills, as Senate GOP leaders have pushed for.
Johnson believes that advancing one bill is the best strategy due to the diversity of the House GOP conference, which he says increases the probability of achieving all objectives. He dismissed concerns about passing a massive bill, emphasizing that reconciliation is an exception focused on reducing spending.
Regarding the debt limit increase included in the bill, Johnson stressed its importance in stabilizing markets and sending a message about the nation's commitment to paying its debts.
He reiterated the commitment to the 'America first' agenda, signaling that reconciliation is the starting point for this legislative effort.
Johnson confirmed alignment with Senate Majority Leader John Thune on the objectives and the ongoing process of finalizing the legislative strategy. He emphasized that there is no intrigue in determining the sequence of actions.
Meetings between Johnson, Thune, and President Trump have taken place to discuss the strategy, with Trump expressing support for the one bill approach.
Johnson denied any existential threat to the Republicans' legislative goals, emphasizing the focus on advancing the agenda effectively.
