WASHINGTON (AP) — Staring down a decision so consequential it could alter the course of history -- but also end his own career -- House Speaker Mike Johnson prayed for guidance.
A conservative Christian, the speaker wrestled over whether to lead the House in approving $95 billion in desperately needed war-time aid for Ukraine, Israel and other U.S. allies, which many in his own Republican majority opposed — some so strongly they would try to boot him from office.
Or, he could do nothing, halting the flow of U.S. aid and potentially saving his own job but ensuring his place as the House speaker who led America’s retreat from the global stage and left Ukraine to fend for itself as it loses ground against the Russian invasion.
As Johnson met with colleagues late into the night this week at the speaker’s office, they prayed on it.
“And then he told me the next day: I want to be on the right side of history,” said Rep. Michael McCaul, the chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee.
Canton Fair sees surge in number of overseas purchasers: official
Ministry of Ethnic Communities, set up to 'heal wounds' of 15 March, faces job cuts
Second murder charge laid after death of Ōpōtiki Mongrel Mob Barbarians president Steven Taiatini
Taiwan eyes first virus case in two months
Taylor Swift 'calls out Kadarius Toney' on The Tortured Poets Department song about Travis Kelce
Government to spend more money on silt clean
Colonial statues vandalised ahead of contentious Australia Day holiday
Dalai Lama’s sister receives award for educating Tibetans in exile — Radio Free Asia
Ai Weiwei mourns Hong Kong freedoms but is 'proud' of Tiananmen middle
Next UN climate talks are critical to plot aid for poorer nations, says incoming president
How directors, distributors and devotees are struggling to keep Hong Kong cinema alive