Sen. Ron Johnson told Newsmax on Thursday that his first priority as the incoming chairman of the Senate Budget Committee will be building consensus on a $95 billion reconciliation package, including the SAVE America Act, as he prepares to succeed the late Sen. Lindsey Graham in the role.
Speaking on Newsmax's "Bianca Across the Nation," the Wisconsin Republican said he is focused on bringing Senate Republicans, House leaders, and the White House together to determine what can realistically pass Congress.
"First of all, this is not the way I wanted to become budget chair," Johnson said. "We're mourning the loss of Lindsey."
Johnson, who is expected to officially assume the chairmanship next week, said he is taking a measured approach following Graham's death after an aortic dissection last Saturday.
"I'm not budget chair yet. That will probably happen next week," Johnson said.
The House Budget Committee this week unveiled a $95 billion budget resolution, known as Reconciliation 3.0, that includes increased defense spending and funding aimed at advancing elements of the SAVE America Act, President Donald Trump's top legislative priority.
Rather than predicting whether the package will pass, Johnson said his immediate goal is getting key Republican leaders aligned on a path forward.
"My first role is to try and get everybody on the same page," he said.
Johnson said he has already begun discussions with House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington, members of the House Freedom Caucus, and Senate Majority Leader John Thune. He also plans to speak with White House Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought.
"We all need to understand what's going to be possible," Johnson said. "What are the issues in each one of our chambers? What does the White House want?"
Johnson said those conversations will help shape the legislation before it advances.
"It's first to get everybody on the same page so we can really do politics, which is accomplishing the art of what's possible," he said.
Before his death, Graham played a central role in developing the reconciliation package. As chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, he worked closely with Republican leadership to advance the legislation through the budget reconciliation process.
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