Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson Discusses Trump, Iran War, and More

Johnson defends Trump administration policies and criticizes Biden's 'war on fossil fuels'.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 6:39pm

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A dynamic, abstract painting of the U.S. Capitol building in red, white, and blue, with the image repeated and overlapping in a fractured, geometric style, conveying a sense of political tension and division.The partisan divide in Congress is reflected in the fractured, overlapping imagery of the U.S. Capitol building.Today in Milwaukee

In an interview with Wisconsin public radio, U.S. Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI) discussed a range of political topics, including the ongoing war with Iran, rising gas prices, and funding for the Department of Homeland Security. Johnson defended the Trump administration's policies and criticized what he called President Biden's 'war on fossil fuels'.

Why it matters

As a prominent Republican senator from a key swing state, Johnson's comments provide insight into the GOP's messaging and priorities heading into the 2026 midterm elections. His staunch support for the Trump administration's agenda and his willingness to challenge the Biden administration on energy and national security issues could resonate with conservative voters in Wisconsin.

The details

Johnson said he supports the price tag of the war with Iran, viewing the country as an 'existential threat' to the U.S. He criticized the high cost of using 'million-dollar missiles' to take down inexpensive drones. On gas prices, Johnson blamed Biden's 'war on fossil fuels' and praised Trump for opening up domestic oil drilling. Regarding funding for the Department of Homeland Security, Johnson indicated the partisan gridlock is ongoing, with the issue likely headed to the budget reconciliation process.

  • The interview with Johnson took place on Wisconsin public radio's 'Wisconsin Today' program.
  • The 2026 midterm elections, which could rebalance power in Congress, are scheduled for November 3, 2026.

The players

Ron Johnson

A Republican U.S. Senator from Wisconsin who has been a vocal supporter of the Trump administration's policies.

Joe Biden

The current President of the United States, whom Johnson criticized for his 'war on fossil fuels'.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States, whose policies Johnson defended and praised.

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What they’re saying

“I obviously don't like higher gas prices. I don't want increased inflation. But again, I view Iran as an existential threat to America. I want to see that threat ended.”

— Ron Johnson, U.S. Senator

“What President Trump has done is he's opened up drilling and oil exploration in America. We are now the largest producer of oil. We aren't dependent on Middle East oil anymore.”

— Ron Johnson, U.S. Senator

What’s next

The 2026 midterm elections, which could rebalance power in Congress, are scheduled for November 3, 2026.

The takeaway

Johnson's comments highlight the ongoing partisan divide in U.S. politics, with the senator firmly aligning himself with the Trump administration's policies and criticizing the Biden administration's approach to energy and national security issues. These positions could resonate with conservative voters in Wisconsin, a key swing state, as the 2026 midterm elections approach.