WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — President-elect Donald Trump has voiced his support for House Speaker Mike Johnson as he prepares to solidify his leadership among Republicans in Congress.
On Monday, Trump took to his social media platform to commend Johnson, labeling him a “hardworking, religious man” from Louisiana. He expressed optimism that “he will do the right thing, and we will keep WINNING.”
“Mike has my Complete & Total Endorsement,” Trump declared with conviction.
Johnson’s role appeared uncertain after a heated debate regarding the federal funding strategy that nearly resulted in a government shutdown just before the Christmas holiday. Although a deal was eventually struck, the situation underscored the limits of Johnson’s sway and the divisions within his party.
The speaker’s initial funding suggestions stumbled when Trump, set to assume office on January 20, stepped in, urging Congress to consider either suspending or increasing the debt ceiling.
Read More: How a Government Shutdown Could Affect Americans
In an effort to reinforce his standing, Johnson has worked hard to align himself with Trump, reassuring the president-elect that he would meet expectations to raise the debt ceiling by 2025.
Prior to the January 3 vote, Trump had stayed silent on Johnson’s leadership prospects, even as some Republican members hinted they might not support him for the position.
Representative Victoria Spartz, a Republican who previously opposed Kevin McCarthy’s initial bid for speakership, remarked on Monday that “our next speaker needs to demonstrate courageous leadership to steer our country back on course.”
The Indiana congresswoman proceeded to articulate a list of expectations for the incoming GOP leader, stressing the necessity for substantial spending reforms. Concurrently, Representative Andy Harris, chair of the ultra-conservative House Freedom Caucus, indicated that Johnson’s leadership may be vulnerable as the holidays approach.
In a post on X, dated December 20, Harris commented that Republicans have not adequately tackled “spending, deficits, and inflation” since Trump’s electoral victory in November.
Consequently, Harris conveyed, “I am now uncertain about what House leadership should look like in the 119th Congress.”
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This report incorporates insights from Associated Press writer Farnoush Amiri in Washington.
