The United States House of Representatives has re-elected Republican Mike Johnson as its speaker, marking a critical test of party unity ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s second term in the White House.
Johnson emerged victorious after a turbulent first round of voting, where initial opposition from some members of his party threatened his bid. Concerns were raised over his involvement in recent bipartisan budget negotiations, leaving his path to victory uncertain.
However, Johnson ultimately secured the speakership with 218 votes out of a total of 435. This came after two Republican holdouts, Ralph Norman of South Carolina and Keith Self of Texas, switched their votes following direct intervention from Trump. Meanwhile, all 215 Democratic votes were cast for minority leader Hakeem Jeffries. Representative Thomas Massie, who had pledged to oppose Johnson, voted instead for fellow Republican Tom Emmer.
The vote underscored the Republicans’ razor-thin majority in the House, requiring near-total unity within the party to achieve a majority. Johnson’s victory highlighted the fragile coalition within Republican ranks and Trump’s sway over party dynamics.
Friday’s vote also spotlighted Trump’s influence, as he urged Republicans to back Johnson. Trump’s message, posted on social media, read: “Good luck today for Speaker Mike Johnson, a fine man of great ability, who is very close to having 100% support. A win for Mike today will be a big win for the Republican Party, and yet another acknowledgment of our 129-year most consequential Presidential Election!!”
Johnson’s election coincided with the first day of the 119th Congress, following November’s general election. Republicans now hold majorities in both the House and Senate, having flipped the upper chamber from Democratic control.
The lead-up to Johnson’s re-election was fraught with division. Several Republicans had publicly opposed him, citing his role in championing a bipartisan temporary budget bill in December. Yet, by Friday morning, key party leaders, including Trump, had rallied behind him.
Despite these challenges, Johnson secured his position as the third most powerful politician in the United States. His win not only solidifies his leadership but also reflects the continued influence of Trump’s agenda as Republicans prepare to govern under his upcoming administration.