In the initial round of voting, Massie quickly chose House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.) as his preferred candidate. He was joined by other dissenters, such as Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC), who backed Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) for speakership, and Rep. Keith Self (R-Texas), who favored Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.), effectively thwarting Johnson’s chances. Some Republicans began reaching out to members of President-elect Donald Trump’s team sensing a potential second round of voting. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) was captured conversing with Trump’s chief-of-staff Susie Wiles from the House floor. Trump, 78, also had discussions with Norman and Self via speakerphone after being summoned by Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC), as reported by Fox News. The Republican caucus applauded as Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) was nominated for Speaker of the House in the 119th Congress. Trump expressed concern about a prolonged vote, urging members to swiftly finalize the decision. Eventually, Norman and Self switched their votes to support Johnson, securing him the majority with 218 votes. Trump emphasized the need for prompt Senate confirmations and border security measures on Day One. Criticism of Johnson’s past leadership and funding negotiations was raised by some Republicans, including Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), who outlined their grievances in a letter. Despite refraining from a mutiny, changes were anticipated including adjustments to the House calendar and fiscal policies. Johnson emphasized his commitment to Trump’s priorities post-vote. All 215 Democrats supported Jeffries in the vote, even with ailing former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi making the effort to attend. Jeffries acknowledged the Republican discord, describing it as a “GOP Civil War” on Day 1.
January 03, 2025 in Washington, DC. Getty Images
Prior to the vote in Congress, President Trump had expressed his preference for Republicans to support Mike Johnson, evident in various endorsements shared on Truth Social. Following Johnson’s successful election as the Speaker, President Trump was among the first to extend his congratulations.
“Congratulations to Speaker Mike Johnson for receiving an unprecedented Vote of Confidence in Congress. Mike will be a Great Speaker, and our Country will be the beneficiary,” the incoming president lauded on Truth Social.
“The People of America have waited four years for Common Sense, Strength, and Leadership. They’ll get it now, and America will be greater than ever before!”
