House Speaker Mike Johnson Discusses Pentagon Press Access and Protests
House Speaker Mike Johnson had a heated exchange with ABC News host Jonathan Karl on Sunday. The conversation revolved around Army Secretary Pete Hegseth’s new Pentagon reporting policy and Johnson’s comments about the “No Kings” protests occurring nationwide.
Karl challenged Johnson, asking, “Do you understand why the Secretary of Defense might be hesitant to engage with journalists?” This question stems from Hegseth requiring journalists to meet specific conditions for access, leading many reporters to return their press badges last week rather than comply.
Johnson responded firmly, stating, “Fear is not a quality of the Secretary of War.” He defended Hegseth’s approach, noting that he has, in fact, been transparent in his communications.
Meanwhile, Karl pointed out that Hegseth has conducted only two press conferences since taking over at the Pentagon, accusing him of excluding the press unless they sign a restrictive pledge that compromises their independence. Johnson, however, countered that Hegseth’s public appearances demonstrate his commitment to transparency, claiming, “I don’t think you can recall a Secretary of Defense who has been this open about his priorities.”
In a twist, Karl pressed Johnson on his remarks regarding the ‘No Kings’ protests, which Johnson described as “Hate America” rallies. Karl pointed out the contradiction in Johnson’s earlier comments, where he suggested seeing Americans as fellow citizens, not enemies. Johnson defended his viewpoint, arguing he was simply attempting to highlight issues he sees within the modern Democratic Party.
Touching on local politics, Johnson referenced the rise of Zoran Mamdani, who he described as an “avowed socialist Marxist” sought by some to lead New York City.
The two also discussed ongoing issues relating to a potential government shutdown. Johnson emphasized that the House had already fulfilled its duties by passing a resolution, criticizing Democrats for attempts to, as he put it, shut down the government. “Democrats voted 11 times, with the exception of three senators, to halt these programs,” he contended.
At one point, Johnson remarked, “If President Trump were king, the government would be open right now,” highlighting his frustration with the current political climate.
