Ukraine War Upd. EXTRA: I'm JP, and I Approve These Messages - GOP Edition

"It's ridiculous to think that you can't do both things...So well done, Pence."

Hello Team

🎦 00:00-01:35⏩

Jonathan welcomes viewers to an "Extra" video focusing on GOP politicians who strongly support Ukraine. This video follows a previous one highlighting pro-Ukraine Democrats, offering a balanced perspective. Jonathan emphasises that while a vocal minority within the GOP espouses pro-Russia and anti-Ukraine sentiments, they may not represent the majority. He aims to showcase the views of GOP figures who recognise the situation's complexity and advocate for a robust US response. Jonathan explains that he spends his life gathering information so his viewers don't have to.

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Representative Mike Lawler (R-NY) on the interconnected nature of global conflicts

🎦 01:35-04:58⏩

Jonathan introduces Representative Mike Lawler, highlighting Lawler's background: his wife is from Moldova, and her family lives near the Ukrainian border. Lawler's personal connection to the region informs his strong stance on Ukraine, setting him apart from some in the GOP. Jonathan questions why understanding the moral implications of a conflict often requires a personal connection. He suggests that for many politicians, their worldview is confined to echo chambers and conspiracy theories. Lawler criticises those in the GOP who fail to see the bigger picture, particularly regarding Ukraine, Iran, and China. He stresses the importance of viewing global conflicts as interconnected elements in a complex geopolitical landscape.

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Representative Mike Lawler (R-NY) on the split within the GOP on Ukraine

🎦 04:58-11:16⏩

Jonathan analyses Lawler's statement about the split within the GOP regarding Ukraine. Lawler characterises the pro-Russia faction as "significantly small" but "loud". Jonathan dissects Lawler's phrasing, suggesting Lawler implies a larger minority than one might expect. Lawler states that a vast majority within the GOP supports aiding Ukraine. Jonathan questions why it has taken Speaker Mike Johnson so long to advance aid packages, especially given the ongoing conflict in Israel. Lawler defends Speaker Johnson, citing a fractured GOP and a focus on domestic priorities like the appropriations package. He acknowledges his desire to see aid delivered sooner and criticises Biden's handling of Iran, highlighting the country's status as a state sponsor of terrorism.

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Jonathan on America's role as a global superpower and the flaws of isolationism

🎦 11:16-17:05⏩

Jonathan pivots to the concept of American isolationism, arguing that the US benefits from its global involvement. He contends that investing in international security and diplomacy yields a return on investment, contrasting this with the "America First" rhetoric of some GOP members. He uses examples like the US film and gaming industries to illustrate America's cultural and economic influence. Jonathan argues that maintaining this global position requires ongoing investment, particularly in areas like security and trade deals. He cautions that isolationism will ultimately diminish America's standing, creating a vacuum for powers like China and Russia to fill. He emphasises the interconnectedness of the modern world, citing pandemics and technological advancements as examples that necessitate international cooperation. Jonathan argues that isolationism is not only impractical but also counterproductive for a nation aspiring to global leadership.

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Former Vice President Mike Pence on the need for American leadership and aid for Ukraine

🎦 17:05-22:43⏩

Jonathan introduces a clip of former Vice President Mike Pence, who advocates for a more globally engaged America. He connects Pence's statement to his earlier point about the need for the US to actively maintain its leadership role. Jonathan applauds Pence for recognising that claiming global leadership requires more than just rhetoric—it demands action and responsibility. Pence stresses the urgency of the situation in Ukraine, calling for continued support for Ukrainians fighting against Russian aggression. He argues that allowing Russia to overrun Ukraine would embolden Putin to target NATO countries, drawing the US into direct conflict. Jonathan highlights Pence's emphasis on the potential domino effect of a Russian victory in Ukraine, a concern shared by many analysts.

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Former Vice President Mike Pence on the GOP's shift towards isolationism and the influence of the "America First" agenda

🎦 22:43-26:48⏩

Jonathan analyses Pence's response to Jake Tapper's questioning about the GOP's shift towards isolationism. He points out Pence's reluctance to directly criticise Trump or his supporters for their stance on foreign aid, even when presented with the opportunity. Jonathan finds Pence's attempts to deflect blame from the Trump administration disingenuous, arguing that the roots of GOP isolationism can be traced back to the Tea Party movement and Trump's presidency. He criticises Pence for downplaying the role of Trump's rhetoric and policies in fuelling the "America First" agenda. Jonathan expresses frustration that Pence, despite acknowledging the dangers of isolationism, fails to explicitly condemn its most vocal proponents within his party.

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Representative Mike Turner (R-OH) on the urgency of Ukraine aid and the impact of delays

🎦 26:48-29:40⏩

Jonathan shifts focus to Representative Mike Turner, Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee. He commends Turner for his generally sound stance on Ukraine, acknowledging Turner's willingness to call out Russian propaganda within the GOP. Turner emphasises the critical need for timely Ukraine aid, highlighting that delays have depleted Ukrainian ammunition and delayed the delivery of advanced weapon systems. Jonathan praises Turner for directly addressing the spread of Russian propaganda on the House floor, a significant and courageous move.

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Representative Mike Turner (R-OH) on the "bully caucus" and the pressure on Speaker Mike Johnson

🎦 29:40-33:42⏩

Jonathan analyses Turner's remarks on the pressure Speaker Mike Johnson faces from within the GOP regarding Ukraine aid. Turner uses phrases like "incredible courage" and "bully caucus" to describe the situation, revealing the intense opposition Johnson faces. Jonathan highlights the dysfunction within the House, where a small faction can hold the Speaker hostage and obstruct crucial legislation. He commends Turner for explicitly labelling the actions of this faction as bullying and unprofessional, underscoring the threat they pose to effective governance. Jonathan draws parallels between this situation and Adam Kinzinger's analogy of the hand grenade, where a single individual can wield disproportionate power through disruption. He argues that MTG currently embodies this disruptive force, highlighting the urgent need to restore professionalism and a commitment to governance within the House.

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Representative Mike Turner (R-OH) on the need to counter Russian disinformation and the true cost of US aid to Ukraine

🎦 33:42-39:45⏩

Jonathan commends Turner for countering misinformation surrounding US aid to Ukraine. He highlights Turner's clarification that a significant portion of the aid package replenishes US stockpiles, directly benefiting the US military and economy. Jonathan criticises MTG's misleading claims about the amount of direct aid going to Ukraine, emphasising the importance of accurate information. Turner underscores the bipartisan nature of the threat posed by Russia, citing their aggressive actions in Ukraine, cyberattacks, and development of new nuclear weapons. Jonathan expresses his agreement with Turner, calling for greater awareness of the tangible threats Russia poses to the US. He praises Turner's clear stance on Russia as an adversary, a position he believes more GOP lawmakers should adopt.

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Tim Miller (The Bulwark) on Mike Johnson's political positioning and the potential impact of his actions

🎦 39:45-51:22⏩

Jonathan introduces a segment from The Bulwark podcast, featuring conservative commentator Tim Miller. The discussion centres around Mike Johnson's unexpected rise to Speaker and his handling of the Ukraine aid bill. Jonathan highlights the contrast between Johnson, a "Reagan Republican" with a strong national security stance, and his predecessor, Jim Jordan, a known isolationist. He points out that Johnson, while aligning with some MAGA positions, demonstrates a more nuanced approach, relying on intelligence agencies and prioritising national interests. Jonathan and Miller discuss the potential consequences of Johnson's decision to work with Democrats on the aid bill. They suggest it could strengthen Johnson's position, portraying him as a pragmatist willing to govern effectively. This bipartisan approach, while unpopular with the MAGA wing, could garner support from more traditional Republicans and even some Democrats who see Johnson as a predictable and less extreme option.

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Wrap Up

🎦 51:22-52:10⏩

Jonathan concludes the video by acknowledging the long overdue nature of the aid package while expressing hope that its passage could signify a move towards greater bipartisanship and a return to effective governance in the House. He suggests that the success of the bill could empower other lawmakers to prioritise national interests over partisan politics, potentially weakening the influence of the MAGA faction. Jonathan leaves viewers with a sense of cautious optimism, acknowledging the significant challenges but highlighting the potential for positive change.

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