Congressman Mike Johnson talks about potential government shutdown
“Logistics are a challenge.” House Speaker Mike Johnson said a brief government shutdown may be inevitable.
As millions of World Cup fans travel across the United States, House Speaker Mike Johnson said Americans should be more proud of their country.
Speaking in Washington, D.C., on June 24, Prime Minister Johnson noted recent Democratic primary victories by candidates aligned with democratic socialism and pointed to overseas visitors’ enthusiasm for American culture in contrast to what he described as a decline in national pride.
“People come from different countries to get a little taste of America, a little taste of freedom, a little taste of our culture and our society,” Johnson said. “And they value it much more highly than socialists running for Congress.”
He said World Cup visitors are embracing the country’s “world-class facilities” and “great atmosphere,” as well as the everyday American experience.
Johnson cited examples of foreign tourists showing interest in U.S. customs, including a Dutch tourist surprised by a Buc-ee gas station, a German athlete visiting a Waffle House, a British fan exploring the Everglades, and a Japanese tourist responding to free chips and salsa.
“Remember to celebrate,” Johnson said.
His comments came as Americans report varying levels of national pride. In an NBC News poll released this week, 33% of respondents said they were “very proud” to be American, while 23% said they were “very proud.” Approximately 21% said they felt “a little” or “not at all” proud.
World Cup matches will be held in 11 U.S. cities: Atlanta, Miami, Boston, New York, Dallas, Philadelphia, Houston, San Francisco Bay Area, Kansas City, Los Angeles and Seattle. The games will be held in the United States until July 19, and at least 10 million people are expected to attend, according to State Department data.
Visitors are documenting their U.S. experiences on social media and sampling delicious foods like the Crunchwrap Supreme, Big Mac and Triple Dipper, according to a previous USA TODAY report. People enjoy the food so much that the Transportation Security Administration posted a warning on social media warning travelers to pack ranch in their checked luggage.
Michelle Del Rey is a popular news reporter. Please contact mdelrey@usatoday.com.
