Citing Constitution, Paul Ryan Defends Israeli Leader’s Address to Congress

During an appearance on NBC News’ “Meet the Press” on Sunday, Rep. Paul Ryan defended House Speaker John Boehner’s decision to invite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address Congress, calling the decision “wholly appropriate.”

Host Chuck Todd asked the Wisconsin Republican if it was appropriate for the legislative branch to circumvent the executive branch in matters of foreign policy.

Ryan said critics of Netanyahu’s visit should look to the U.S. Constitution.

“These are three separate but equal branches of government,” said Ryan. “We don’t subserve one to the other.”

Ryan rejected the notion that Netanyahu’s address was meant to “antagonize” the White House, and said that the president’s Iranian policy faces bipartisan congressional concern.

“I think it’s totally appropriate that we have Bibi Netanyahu, the prime minister of Israel, come and address us with his thoughts,” said Ryan.

Ryan was also asked about his former running mate Gov. Mitt Romney’s decision not to run for president again, calling it “bittersweet.”

“Look, it’s no secret I think Mitt Romney would have been a fantastic president,” said Ryan, adding that he would have supported Romney whatever his decision had been.

Ryan said Romney put the country first, and that he is a “class act.”