Mike Johnson Cancels AmFest Appearance Following Conservative Backlash Over Spending Bill

House Speaker Mike Johnson has withdrawn from Turning Point USA’s America Fest after facing fierce backlash for pushing a massive spending bill packed with controversial provisions, including a hidden pay raise for Congress. The decision to cancel comes as conservatives accuse Johnson of betraying his promises of fiscal responsibility and transparency.

The 1,500-page bill, introduced late Tuesday, was immediately condemned for its timing and content. Critics were outraged that Johnson attempted to fast-track the legislation just before Christmas—a practice he had previously denounced. Elon Musk, a prominent Trump ally, blasted the bill as “the biggest piece of pork” and urged Republicans to reject it.

America Fest, a major conservative event in Phoenix, Arizona, was set to feature Johnson alongside President-elect Donald Trump and other Republican figures. However, Johnson’s absence has drawn further criticism, with many conservatives viewing it as an attempt to avoid accountability for his actions.

The backlash grew after Trump publicly denounced the legislation, describing it as a trap designed by Democrats to damage the economy. Trump warned Johnson that his position as speaker depends on his ability to take bold and decisive action against such wasteful measures.

Conservatives have drawn parallels between Johnson and his predecessor, Kevin McCarthy, who was ousted as speaker for failing to uphold conservative principles. Many see Johnson’s push for the bill as a direct betrayal of the expectations set when he assumed the role.

Johnson’s withdrawal from America Fest has become a flashpoint in the debate over Republican leadership, highlighting the frustration of grassroots conservatives with Washington insiders.

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