House Speaker Mike Johnson faces a narrow path to keeping his gavel Friday when the new Congress convenes.
Even with President-elect Donald Trump’s endorsement and growing Senate Republican support, Johnson’s path back to the speakership cannot afford any defections..
“My friend [Johnson] has done an incredible job in the House, and I’m glad he’s at the helm there as Congress looks forward to growing our economy and safeguarding our communities in the new year,” Sen. John Kennedy recently wrote on X.
With Republicans holding an extremely slim 220-215 majority, and with some lawmakers unable to vote, Johnson can lose only two GOP votes — and conservative Rep. Thomas Massie, R-K.Y., has already announced his opposition.
“I respect and support President Trump, but his endorsement of Mike Johnson is going to work out about as well as his endorsement of Speaker Paul Ryan,” Massie said.
The Louisiana Republican, who became speaker in October 2023 after Kevin McCarthy’s unprecedented removal, has faced criticism over his handling of Ukraine aid and huge spending bill deals with Democrats.
The House cannot conduct business without a speaker, who serves as both presiding officer and administrative head.
Sen. Rand Paul, R-K.Y., has suggested unconventional alternatives.
“Technically, the rules of the House—I don’t think you have to be a member of the House to be speaker,” noting that both he and Trump have received speaker votes in the past.
The vote requires a majority of present members, traditionally 218, though “present” votes can lower this threshold. Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries remains his party’s nominee, but Johnson’s fate rests primarily with his fellow Republicans.
Sen. Bill Cassidy endorsed his fellow Louisianan: “I agree with President Trump that [Johnson] is the right man to lead. He’s a committed conservative and a man of integrity.”