Stefanik Accuses Speaker Johnson Of Protecting ‘Deep State’ On Defense Bill

Representative Elise Stefanik has publicly accused House Speaker Mike Johnson of protecting what she describes as “the deep state,” specifically over his role in removing a provision from defense legislation concerning congressional disclosures during FBI counterintelligence investigations into presidential candidates.

In a lengthy social media post, Stefanik, who is also running for governor of New York, detailed her frustration. The provision would have required disclosure if an investigation targets a presidential or federal candidate seeking office. She stated it was a “scandalous disgrace” that Republicans are allowing themselves to be rolled by Democrats and the deep state on this issue.

Stefanik’s stance comes amid concerns over Republicans maintaining their thin House majority, but she has been at odds with Johnson for some time regarding his political tactics. Last year, Stefanik blamed Johnson for blocking her nomination as ambassador to the United Nations. Now, a fellow House Republican noted that because Stefanik is running for governor, “frankly does not give [an expletive] anymore about playing nice.”

Speaker Johnson dismissed Stefanik’s accusations while campaigning in Tennessee on Tuesday. He said it wasn’t even on his radar and questioned why she would bother him. “I don’t exactly know why Elise won’t just call me,” Johnson reportedly texted her yesterday, then told reporters he had written to clarify: “‘What are you talking about?'” adding that this hadn’t reached his level of concern.

Stefanik responded quickly on social media, labeling Johnson’s claim as more lies. “Just more lies from the Speaker,” she wrote. She also noted that Johnson claimed not to know anything via text message, saying sarcastically: “Yeah right.” Stefanik characterized the provision’s removal as part of the Speaker’s preferred tactic to torpedo the Republican agenda.

Furthermore, Representative Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, chair of the House Judiciary Committee, voiced his opposition to removing this particular protection from the defense bill. He stated officials “want this protection in there,” believing it makes sense.

Sources indicate that other House Republicans were reportedly shocked by Stefanik’s public criticisms and her decision to keep such posts online. Speaker Johnson’s team has also reached out privately with Stefanik’s camp, according to multiple individuals familiar with the matter, hoping for a resolution off-camera or off-screen.