Mike Johnson Faces Intensifying Challenges to Retain Speakership
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) is under increasing pressure from within his party as the January 3 speaker election approaches. Despite receiving a public endorsement from President-elect Trump, a group of hardline Republicans remains unconvinced, criticizing Johnson for his willingness to work with Democrats on government spending and foreign aid.
Why It Matters
The pushback from conservative Republicans reveals fractures in party unity. Lawmakers like Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) are demanding concrete commitments to deep spending cuts before offering support. Around a dozen Republicans, including Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.), remain undecided. With a narrow 219-215 Republican majority in the House, Johnson can afford to lose only one GOP vote. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) has already said he’ll vote for an alternative, leaving Johnson no room for additional defections.
Behind the Scenes
Over the holiday break, Johnson has been reaching out to key GOP figures and factions, including the…
