Posted on 01/03/25
| News Source: The Hill
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) was reelected to his position as Speaker of the House on the opening day of Congress in a dramatic floor vote, securing the gavel on the first ballot.
The vote, however, did not come without tension. Reps. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) and Keith Self (R-Texas) initially voted for other candidates—Norman for Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) and Self for Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.). After negotiations with Johnson, both lawmakers switched their votes to support him.
Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), who has been critical of Johnson’s spending policies, cast the only Republican dissenting vote, supporting GOP Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.). Despite this, Johnson secured the position, with lawmakers congratulating him with handshakes and hugs after the vote.
The win is also seen as a victory for President-elect Trump, who endorsed Johnson and played a significant role in rallying Republican support. Trump celebrated the outcome on Truth Social, calling it a "big win for the Republican Party" and a validation of his election legacy.
Johnson’s election was critical for House Republicans, who hold a slim majority with 219 seats to the Democrats’ 215. All House Democrats voted for Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.).
Leading up to the vote, Johnson held multiple meetings with holdouts who were pushing for commitments on spending cuts and a more member-driven legislative process. While Johnson refused to make side deals, he did make three public commitments, addressing key concerns raised by lawmakers like Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-Ind.).
The vote marks a significant moment of unity for House Republicans, ensuring stability as Congress begins its new term.