Johnson Hasn’t Spoken To Trump About Key Issue

Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) addressed reporters on Thursday, confirming that he has not sought President-elect Donald Trump’s assistance in securing support from skeptical Republicans for his bid to retain the Speaker’s gavel.

“No, I haven’t asked him to do that,” Johnson stated, adding that while he had met with Trump the previous day at Mar-a-Lago, their conversation was cordial and productive. “We had a great visit. I’m confident this will work out well tomorrow. We’ll be unified, and we’ll get this done,” Johnson assured.

The stakes are high for Johnson, who can afford to lose no more than one Republican vote, assuming full attendance in the House. Already, Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) has publicly declared he will not vote for Johnson, while other members are seeking reassurances on policy matters before committing their support.

With every Democrat expected to be present for the vote, casting their ballots for House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), Johnson has little room for error. Key Republican figures, such as Reps. Victoria Spartz (R-Ind.), Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.), Eric Burlison (R-Mo.), Ralph Norman (R-S.C.), Scott Perry (R-Pa.), and Andy Harris (R-Md.), have remained undecided or expressed concerns, signaling potential holdouts that could jeopardize Johnson’s chances.

Meanwhile, Trump has reportedly spoken to Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), who has raised doubts about Johnson’s ability to secure the necessary votes. Trump previously indicated he would be willing to make calls on Johnson’s behalf if needed, but his confidence remains high that the Louisiana congressman can secure the Speakership without much outside intervention.

For Republicans, unity is critical. Johnson’s ability to bring his party together will determine not only his tenure as Speaker but also the broader success of the GOP agenda in the 118th Congress.