The DSR Network The Daily Blast: Mike Johnson Goes Off Rails in Vile Gaslighting Display on Trump, ICE
Jan 15, 2026
In this discussion, Sarah Posner, an author and journalist specializing in the religious right, delves into House Speaker Mike Johnson's troubling comments about ICE violence. She explains how Johnson's rhetoric blames victims like Renee Good while framing ICE as a misunderstood agency. Their conversation reveals the intersection of religious and secular authoritarianism within Trumpism, highlighting how some evangelical leaders are calling for prayers not for victims, but for those perpetuating violence. Posner also emphasizes the need for Democrats to reclaim pluralistic values.
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Blaming Protesters Over Agency Accountability
- Mike Johnson blamed Renee Good and framed protesters as enemies rather than acknowledging possible ICE misconduct.
- Sarah Posner says Johnson views left-leaning citizens as inherently illegitimate and unworthy of protection.
Resistance Framed As Cause Of Violence
- Johnson framed ICE as doing its designed job and warned against cutting funding, implying victims cause violence by resisting.
- Posner calls this a subtle shift that blames resistance for ICE's 'tragic consequences.'
Religious Authoritarianism Shields Force
- Posner argues MAGA religious authoritarianism treats force as a legitimate, God-given instrument of governance.
- That worldview shields agencies like ICE from accountability and moral critique.
