Speaker Mike Johnson walks back comments that GOP would ‘probably’ try to repeal CHIPS Act

House Speaker Mike Johnson’s recent remarks about the CHIPS Act have stirred controversy, potentially jeopardizing the reelection prospects of one of the GOP’s more vulnerable incumbents. During a campaign event in Syracuse, New York, Johnson suggested that if Republicans regain control of Congress and Donald Trump wins the presidency, they “probably will” attempt to repeal the semiconductor manufacturing legislation. This statement raised eyebrows given the CHIPS Act’s significance for local economic development, particularly in the context of a planned $100 billion microchip manufacturing center in the region.

After facing backlash, Johnson quickly backtracked, clarifying that he fully supports Micron’s investment in Central New York and emphasized that repealing the CHIPS Act is not on the GOP’s agenda. In a statement, he said, “To the contrary, there could be legislation to further streamline and improve the primary purpose of the bill—to eliminate its costly regulations and Green New Deal requirements.”

The CHIPS and Science Act, passed in 2022, aims to reinvigorate the U.S. semiconductor manufacturing sector with an investment of over $200 billion over five years. This funding is designed to help bring chip production back to the U.S., lower costs, and mitigate supply chain disruptions that have plagued the industry.

Johnson’s original comments were made in response to a question about Trump’s stance on the CHIPS Act and whether a Republican-led Congress would seek to repeal it. He stated, “I expect that we probably will, but we haven’t developed that part of the agenda yet.” His remarks came as he campaigned alongside GOP Rep. Brandon Williams, who is facing a tough challenge from Democratic state Sen. John Mannion. The CHIPS Act is particularly critical to Williams’s campaign, as it is expected to have a significant positive impact on the local economy.

Following Johnson’s comments, Williams, who has emphasized the importance of the CHIPS Act in his campaign, quickly intervened, stating he would “remind [Johnson] night and day how important the CHIPS Act is.” Later that day, Williams reported that Johnson had apologized privately for his initial comments, stating he had misheard the question posed to him.

In the wake of Johnson’s gaffe, Democratic opponents were quick to seize the moment. Mannion criticized the GOP’s position, remarking, “Trump wants to dismantle, Johnson is in lock-step, Williams calls it corporate welfare.” He vowed to support the CHIPS and Science Act, promising to maintain investment in Central New York and the Mohawk Valley.

Johnson did express some reservations about the CHIPS Act, citing concerns regarding unrelated programs included in the bill. He noted, “We’re going to support chip manufacturing; we do not support the Green New Deal. When you separate those two things, that makes it a whole lot simpler.” His clarification seems aimed at reconciling his party’s broader objectives with local interests, particularly in an election season where every seat is critical.

Williams was not in Congress when the CHIPS Act was passed but had previously criticized it during his 2022 campaign. His defense of the act now underscores the local significance of the legislation as he seeks to solidify support ahead of the upcoming election.

As the political landscape evolves, the CHIPS Act remains a pivotal issue in the Central New York district. With economic growth tied closely to the success of semiconductor manufacturing, the implications of Johnson’s remarks could resonate far beyond the campaign trail, influencing both local voters and national GOP strategies moving forward. The interplay between party ideology and regional economic interests will continue to shape the narratives as the election draws near.