Mike Johnson defends Texas GOP candidate Brandon Herrera

House of Representatives Majority Leader Mike Johnson has defended Texas Republican candidate Brandon Herrera following scrutiny over past controversial remarks. During a CNN interview, Johnson was questioned about his endorsement and fundraising efforts for Herrera, a 28-year-old streamer known as ‘The AK Guy.’

Herrera has faced criticism for past videos, including footage of him goose-stepping to a Nazi marching song and making misogynistic comments. While Johnson described the language used in those videos as ‘detestable,’ he argued that Herrera has apologized and characterized his past actions as those of a ‘provocateur’ seeking attention. Johnson framed the upcoming election for Texas’ 23rd Congressional District as a choice between ‘common sense and crazy.’

Herrera has expressed that he stands by some of his past content, stating on social media that certain videos were ‘funny as hell.’