Stefanik claims Johnson is being dishonest about provision in defense bill

Washington Representative Elise Stefanik, a New York Republican, sharply criticized House Speaker Mike Johnson this week, alleging that he obstructed a measure requiring the FBI to inform Congress when initiating counterintelligence probes of candidates for federal office.

Stefanik, part of Johnson's leadership team, stated on Monday that she would oppose the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) if the provision is excluded. The House is expected to vote on the defense policy legislation as early as next week.

In a social media message, Stefanik claimed that Johnson was being influenced by Democrats who do not support the measure. "Unless this provision is reinstated to prevent the political misuse of intelligence in elections, I will vote NO. I have consistently supported defense and intelligence bills, but not this time," she wrote.

Her frustration continued in a post the following day, directly blaming Johnson for preventing her amendment from being included. "This is straightforward. The bill is essentially dead unless my provision is restored as approved by the committee," she said.

On Wednesday, Stefanik reported via X that, following discussions with former President Trump and Johnson, the provision would ultimately be added to the NDAA. She described it as "a major legislative achievement against the unlawful politicization of government intelligence."

Before this update, Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, had denied awareness of the situation, labeling Stefaniks account as "false." At a Tuesday press conference, he said, "I dont understand why Elise wont contact me directly. I texted her yesterday," and added, "This hasnt even reached my level."

Johnson noted that bipartisan leadership of the House and Senate Judiciary committees, which he viewed as responsible, had not agreed to include the measure in the defense bill. Stefanik countered by insisting he was aware and urged him to act, emphasizing that the House Intelligence Committee holds jurisdiction over the provision.

"Just more deception from the Speaker," Stefanik said. "He routinely denies accountability when caught undermining Republican priorities."

Her initial threat to block the defense bill risked complicating its passage in the House, where Republicans hold a slim majority. The NDAA has historically passed annually for more than 60 years with bipartisan backing.

Author: Chloe Ramirez