Russian Propaganda Infiltrates U.S. Congress, Warns Intel Committee Chair
Ohio Republican Rep. Mike Turner, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, said Sunday that Russian propaganda has taken hold among some of his House Republican colleagues and is even “being uttered on the House floor.” In an interview on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Turner agreed with recent remarks made by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Michael McCaul, who said that Russian propaganda has “infected a good chunk” of the GOP base.
Turner: Propaganda Makes it Difficult to See Conflict as Democracy vs. Authoritarianism
“We see directly coming from Russia … communications that are anti-Ukraine and pro-Russia messages, some of which we even hear being uttered on the House floor,” Turner told host Jake Tapper. “There are members of Congress today who still incorrectly say that this conflict between Russia and Ukraine is over NATO, which of course it is not.”
Turner emphasized that the spread of Russian propaganda makes it more challenging to view the conflict as a battle between authoritarianism and democracy. “President Xi of China, Vladimir Putin himself have identified as such,” he said.
The influence of Russian propaganda on American politics has become an increasingly pressing concern, as it seeks to sow division and undermine support for Ukraine’s struggle against Russian aggression. Turner’s comments highlight the need for lawmakers to remain vigilant in distinguishing between propaganda and reality, and to work towards building a consensus on the importance of supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Congress Faces Delays in Approving Ukraine Aid Package
The committee chairs’ comments come as Congress faces delays in approving additional military aid to Ukraine. The House has stalled on efforts to pass a $95.3 billion aid package that the Senate approved in February, which would provide resources to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan.
House Speaker Mike Johnson has refused to bring the aid package to a vote on the House floor, and some speculate that his position as speaker could be at risk if he moves forward with Ukraine aid. However, Turner downplayed this notion, stating, “I don’t think he’s at any risk.”
The delay in approving the aid package has raised concerns among supporters of Ukraine, who argue that timely assistance is crucial in helping the country defend itself against Russian aggression. The political tensions surrounding the issue have also highlighted the challenges of building bipartisan support for foreign aid in an increasingly polarized political climate.
Democrats Signal Willingness to Support Johnson's Speakership
Democrats have signaled their willingness to join several Republicans in helping to save Johnson’s speakership if a motion to vacate, such as the one filed by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, were brought to a vote.
The potential for cross-party cooperation in support of Johnson’s speakership underscores the complex political dynamics at play in the debate over Ukraine aid. While some Republicans have expressed reservations about the aid package, others, like Turner, remain committed to providing the necessary support to Ukraine.
The willingness of Democrats to potentially support Johnson’s speakership also suggests a recognition of the broader strategic importance of the Ukraine issue, and the need for a united front in the face of Russian aggression.
Turner Urges Congress to Act on Ukraine Aid
