In a Tuesday flare‑up that risked derailing a defense bill, Rep. Elise Stefanik publicly accused House Speaker Mike Johnson of “blocking” one of her proposals. The contention centers on a rule that would require the FBI to notify candidates for public office whenever they’re under investigation for counter‑intelligence matters—an amendment that emerged from National Defense Authorization talks.
Stefanik blasted Johnson as siding with Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin, insisting he’s protecting a “deep state” agenda at the expense of the bill. She took to X to urge that without that provision the defense package would be dead, saying it was the only route to safeguard against weaponization scandals like Crossfire Hurricane and Arctic Frost.
While Johnson dismissed any obstructive role, explaining that the decision to keep or drop the amendment lies with the towering members of the House and Senate Judiciary committees—a bipartisan mix of two Republicans and two Democrats—he let reporters know that he supports the measure and is willing to help resolve the standoff. He also expressed confusion over Stefanik’s frustration and pointed out that he had no part in the talk.
After the floor session, Stefanik didn’t cool off. She fired back on X, accusing Johnson of spreading untruths and employing a “preferred tactic” to blur the Republican agenda. Her criticism intensified the feud over a clause that is still under review by the Judiciary panels, meaning the top lawmakers there must approve it before it becomes law.
A House Republican source told The Post that Rep. Jamie Raskin has threatened to rally fellow Democrats to kill the entire defense package if the provision remains. The source confirmed that Raskin is threatening to derail the package entirely.
House Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan has expressed backing for the amendment, while Senate comrades—Sen. Chuck Grassley and Sen. Dick Durbin—have stayed silent on the exchange. A Senate aide clarified that the issue remains a purely House matter, noting that the Senate Judiciary Committee has yet to weigh in.
Stefanik, who justly earned the title of House Republican Leadership Chair with Johnson’s backing, is also eyeing the New York gubernatorial race next year. She and Johnson are working hard to secure a winning ticket to keep the state’s battleground congressional districts in Republican hands. Johnson, himself, campaigned across those districts last year, giving a energetic push in the run‑up to Election Day.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
