Washington, December 31, 2024 – The Europe Today: President-elect Donald Trump has officially endorsed House Speaker Mike Johnson, providing pivotal support for the Louisiana Republican as he faces another contentious bid for the speakership this week.
In a post on his social media platform, Trump praised Johnson as “a good, hard-working, religious man” and expressed confidence in his leadership. “Mike has my Complete & Total Endorsement,” Trump declared, adding that Johnson “will do the right thing, and we will continue to WIN.”
In response, Johnson thanked Trump for his endorsement and emphasized the urgency of action. “The American people demand and deserve that we waste no time. Let’s get to work!” he wrote.
Challenges Ahead for Johnson
Despite Trump’s backing, Johnson’s position remains precarious following backlash over a spending deal he brokered days before Christmas. While the deal averted a holiday government shutdown, it required Democratic support, drawing criticism from hardline Republicans.
The agreement failed to achieve Trump’s key goal of raising the debt limit, leaving some GOP members questioning Johnson’s leadership. His first two funding proposals collapsed after Trump intervened with demands to suspend or lift the government debt ceiling.
Trump’s endorsement signals a reconciliation after Johnson assured the president-elect that he would prioritize raising the debt limit in 2025. However, key Republican figures remain skeptical.
Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-IN), a vocal critic of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy, called for “courageous leadership” and major spending reforms from the next GOP leader. Similarly, Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD), chair of the ultra-conservative House Freedom Caucus, expressed dissatisfaction with the party’s progress on addressing “spending, deficits, and inflation.”
Speakership Race Adds to GOP Uncertainty
Johnson’s ability to secure the speaker’s gavel remains uncertain ahead of the January 3 leadership vote. If he—or another candidate—fails to garner majority support, the House could be left without a speaker, potentially disrupting the certification of Trump’s victory on January 6 and delaying legislative operations in the 119th Congress.
With tensions high and divisions evident within the GOP, the speakership race underscores the challenges awaiting the incoming Republican majority as it navigates its legislative agenda under Trump’s presidency.
