Johnson Links French Riots to 'Open Borders,' Warns of US Chaos

House Speaker Mike Johnson stated Monday that "open borders" were the cause of recent riots in France, warning that similar chaos could befall the United States if Democrats implement comparable policies.

"France is descending into chaos because they wanted OPEN BORDERS — just like the socialist Democrats in America," Johnson wrote on X. "What we are witnessing is a chilling warning for all Americans of what happens if the radical Marxist insurgent left gets their way. America is not merely in a battle of political ideologies — it’s a battle for the preservation of our civilization, our freedoms, and our way of life."

Johnson added, "If Democrats take back control, it will be open borders and criminal illegals overrunning our country, many of whom want to destroy it."

His remarks come amid growing debate about the influence of socialist ideas within the Democratic party. Longtime Democratic operative James Carville expressed concern about this trend, telling The Bulwark that he would prefer Republicans retain control of the House to prevent Democrats from becoming "hostage to the [Democratic Socialists of America]."

Videos from France showed widespread looting, arson, and clashes with police, with as many as 2,000 businesses reportedly damaged nationwide. The unrest began as protests over school conditions but broadened to include economic grievances related to inflation and fuel prices.

Conservative figures, including former President Donald Trump, have attributed the unrest in France to large-scale migration. Trump wrote on Truth Social, "The migrants have taken over France. They must CLOSE THE BORDERS, FAST!"

In contrast, French President Emmanuel Macron's allies and political opponents have pointed fingers at different sources for the violence. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu blamed leftist leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon for inciting the riots, while centrist presidential candidate Marine Le Pen argued that the far-left and Mélenchon's deputies legitimized violence, seeking to plunge the country into chaos.

Mélenchon, however, maintained that police brutality was the instigator of the protests.

The situation in France has drawn comparisons to the widespread protests and rioting that occurred in the U.S. in the spring and summer of 2020, following the murder of George Floyd. However, the notes indicate that immigrants were not a primary factor in the U.S. unrest, which was largely characterized by urban youth and self-described "Antifa" activists.