Vice President Kamala Harris strongly criticized House Speaker Mike Johnson for his recent remarks indicating that Republicans might aim to repeal the CHIPS and Science Act if they gain control of Congress in the upcoming elections. Speaking to reporters in Milwaukee, Harris linked Johnson’s comments to a broader Republican agenda influenced by former President Trump, particularly concerning health care and technology.
Harris stated, “This is further evidence of our conversations about [Trump’s] Project 2025.” She highlighted the importance of the CHIPS Act, stating it has been a vital part of discussions about job creation and advancements in technology.
Johnson made his initial comment during an event with Representative Brandon Williams in New York, which led to a brief but tense exchange when Williams expressed his support for the CHIPS Act and contradicted Johnson’s assertion. Shortly thereafter, Johnson attempted to clarify his stance, stating he supports the CHIPS Act and indicating that repealing it was not on the agenda.
This back-and-forth indicated broader tensions within the Republican Party, especially concerning policies aimed at boosting semiconductor manufacturing and job creation. Harris remarked that Johnson’s swift damage control was indicative of the unpopularity of such an agenda.
In response to Harris’s comments, a spokesperson for Johnson criticized the current Biden administration’s economic record, attributing job losses to the administration’s policies and dismissing Harris’s claims as fabrications from a failed politician.
Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, joined in criticizing Johnson, underscoring the potential negative impact on job growth if the CHIPS Act were to be repealed. President Joe Biden also weighed in, reinforcing his commitment to the Act and its economic benefits, emphasizing his role in its establishment.
The CHIPS Act, which was passed with bipartisan support in 2022, allocated a significant $280 billion to enhance domestic semiconductor production and has reportedly already resulted in substantial job creation and investments across various states.
The article serves as a reminder of the stark political divide over economic policy, particularly ahead of the crucial elections. There is reason for cautious optimism, however, as the CHIPS Act exemplifies bipartisan efforts to strengthen the U.S. economy and technology sector. This may serve as a foundation for future cooperative legislative initiatives to address important economic issues.