Mike Johnson was re-elected as U.S. House Speaker with 218 votes, following initial resistance from Republican holdouts. Donald Trump's intervention swayed key votes, underscoring his influence as the party prepares for his second term. Johnson’s leadership solidifies Republican control in Congress amid a narrow majority and upcoming legislative challenges.
Republican Mike Johnson has been re-elected as the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, securing a narrow victory with 218 votes. His re-election reflects the Republican Party's fragile unity as it prepares to support President-elect Donald Trump’s agenda ahead of his second term.
Initially, Johnson faced opposition within his party due to his role in December’s bipartisan budget negotiations. Representatives Ralph Norman of South Carolina and Keith Self of Texas were among the holdouts but switched their votes after direct intervention from Trump. The minority leader, Democrat Hakeem Jeffries, received 215 votes, while Republican Thomas Massie cast his vote for Tom Emmer in protest.
The speakership vote was a critical test of Trump’s influence within the Republican Party. Trump urged members to back Johnson, highlighting the importance of unified support for advancing his upcoming legislative agenda, which includes tax reforms and stricter immigration policies.
"Good luck today for Speaker Mike Johnson, a fine man of great ability, who is very close to having 100% support," Trump posted on social media ahead of the vote.
Johnson’s re-election occurred on the first day of the 119th Congress, where Republicans now hold majorities in both the House and Senate. His victory solidifies his position as the third most powerful figure in U.S. politics and showcases Trump’s enduring sway over party dynamics.
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