In a revealing critique, Republican Indiana Rep. Jim Banks accused Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) of ceding control to the Democrats over Ukraine aid issues.

Banks asserts that Johnson's approach to Ukraine aid represents a shift in control to Democratic preferences in Congress, as Breitbart reports.

During an interview on Breitbart News Saturday, Banks voiced strong criticism of Johnson, the Republican Speaker from Louisiana.

He specifically targeted Johnson's handling of aid to Ukraine, framing it as a capitulation to the other side of the aisle.

Accusations of Leadership Failures

According to Banks, the recent actions by Johnson in Congress effectively handed over the legislative leadership to the Democrats.

This claim was rooted in a particular vote on a House rule which saw a significant number of Democrats in support compared to Republicans, indicating a divisive issue within the party.

Banks lamented what he sees as a betrayal of the Republican electorate, who anticipated a majority more reflective of their values under Republican control. He argued that Johnson's leadership style is indistinguishably similar to that of former Democratic Speaker Nancy Pelosi, which he described as deeply disappointing.

Jim Banks on Secure Borders and Leadership

The congressman emphasized the importance of securing U.S. borders before extending further aid abroad, a policy stance he feels has been overlooked by Johnson.

Banks' criticism extends to the broader Republican leadership, which he believes should more closely align with former President Donald Trump's "America first" philosophy.

In his critique, Banks expressed concern about the potential consequences of removing Johnson from his position, especially given the slim majority Republicans hold in the House.

He questioned whether ousting Johnson might inadvertently lead to worse outcomes if a Democrat were to assume the speakership.

Senate Aspirations and Future Leadership

Banks confirmed his intention to run for the Senate, aiming to influence the direction of leadership and policy more effectively from that chamber. His goal is to foster leadership that embodies the "America first" agenda, a sentiment he believes is widely supported among current House members.

"America needs a House and Senate filled with members who are aligned with Donald Trump’s America first agenda," Banks stated, underscoring his commitment to this political strategy.

Representative Banks' Sharp Critique of Speaker Johnson

"Mike Johnson has handed the speaker’s gavel over to the Democrats and said here, you guys take control. I mean, there's no other explanation for it," Banks explained, highlighting his frustration and disbelief at Johnson's decisions.

He continued, "I don’t know the difference between a Democrat speaker and Republican Speaker Mike Johnson at this point. He’s done everything the Democrats have wanted him to do, so I’m not sure that it can get worse but with a one seat majority if you oust him, does a Democrat assume the Speaker’s chair? Does that lead to something that’s even... worse than what we’ve seen come out of Johnson?"

Conclusion

In summary, Rep. Jim Banks has openly criticized Speaker Mike Johnson for his handling of Ukraine aid, likening his leadership to that of a Democratic Speaker and suggesting it betrays Republican voters' expectations.

Banks, who is also eyeing a Senate seat, advocates for a leadership overhaul in both the House and Senate to realign with the "America first" agenda, stressing the importance of secure U.S. borders and a stronger Republican stance in Congress.