Republicans Still Distant From Johnson

Rep. Rich McCormick (R-Ga.) signaled he is leaning toward supporting Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) in the upcoming leadership vote, but he remains cautious and wants more reassurances before making a firm commitment. Speaking on NewsNation’s The Hill on Monday, McCormick suggested that while he is likely to back Johnson, he still has unresolved concerns, particularly regarding fiscal responsibility and the nation’s growing debt.

“We have decisions to make, and there are about 10 of us still leaning one way or another,” McCormick explained. “We need reassurances that we are on the right track.” The Georgia congressman made it clear that one of his biggest concerns is whether Johnson and the leadership are truly committed to addressing the debt crisis. He emphasized the urgency of cutting spending and the need for a solid plan to avoid the nation’s financial ruin.

McCormick’s caution reflects broader frustration within the Republican Party. While Speaker Johnson has earned the endorsement of President Trump, some conservative lawmakers remain skeptical. McCormick, like fellow Republicans Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) and Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), is looking for concrete proposals and specific plans to reduce government spending before committing to Johnson’s leadership.

“The question is, how are we going to save this nation from bankruptcy?” McCormick asked. “I just don’t think we have a clear plan yet.” He also expressed concerns that without a detailed approach to budget cuts, any legislation could end up being passed with support from Democrats, which would not be a sustainable solution for the country.

McCormick further addressed the criticism of Trump over the budget issue, reminding his colleagues that, ultimately, Congress holds the power to pass a responsible budget. “Trump can have his ideas, but it’s up to us in Congress to do the heavy lifting and pass a budget that actually addresses our spending problems,” McCormick concluded, stressing the need for fiscal discipline that has been absent from Washington for decades.

For Republicans, the stakes in this leadership vote are high. McCormick’s reluctance to fully back Johnson underscores the frustration many conservatives feel over the lack of meaningful change in how Washington handles spending, and whether Johnson will truly deliver the reforms needed to avoid a financial disaster.