Johnson Rips Senate Republicans Over Personal Payout Provision In Bill: I Was Very Angry'

"I want to say that he is a principled leader. I've enjoyed working with him. We've got a great working relationship and a good friendship. He's a trustworthy, honest broker. And that's why I was so surprised when we found out about that provision, Johnson replied, adding: It was put in our clean CR at the last moment. I'm just being honest. I'm very transparent with you."

"I did not appreciate that, nor did most of the House members. Many of them are very angry about that. So we will be bringing that up. We'll probably pass it on suspension early next week, and we'll send it over to the Senate. I had a conversation with Leader Thune early this morning about it. I think he regretted the way it was done, and we had an honest conversation about that."

Senate Majority Leader John Thune negotiated inclusion of language in the legislative branch funding measure that would pay senators $500,000 if federal law enforcement obtains their electronic data without notifying them. The provision responds to accusations that Special Counsel Jack Smith collected phone data on GOP senators during the January 6 investigation; Smith clarified he accessed call logs, not tapped phones. House members were reportedly unaware the language was added at the last minute. Johnson expressed surprise and anger, said he contacted Thune, and indicated the House will bring the provision up and likely pass a repeal on suspension next week.

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