Mike Johnson: The New Speaker of the House, a Devoted Trump Supporter and a Subtle Influence in Republican Circles

A relatively obscure Congressional figure for nearly a decade, Mike Johnson, the newly elected Speaker of the House, might not be a household name in America. However, as a staunch social conservative and a faithful ally to former President Donald Trump, he has quietly made his influence felt within the Republican conference that he now unexpectedly helms.

Johnson’s significant achievement came when he secured all of the 220 Republican votes to clinch the Speaker’s position on the House floor. This feat was not accomplished by any of his more high-profile colleagues, and it ended the Republicans’ three-week struggle to find a replacement for the ousted Kevin McCarthy.

Reputed for his deep religious convictions, the Louisiana Republican refers to himself as a “servant.” Colleagues are optimistic that his leadership will bring stability and a fresh beginning, helping the party overcome the entrenched divisions that have plagued GOP House leaders for the past ten years.

Elise Stefanik, the Republican conference chairwoman, described Johnson as “a friend to all and an enemy to none” during her nomination speech prior to the vote for the Speaker’s position.

Related Stories

• Mike Johnson, a dedicated Louisiana conservative, wins House Speaker as GOP moves past internal discord
• New York Rep. Bowman charged with misdemeanor, fined for triggering House fire alarm
• Biden lauds Australia as a ‘pillar of peace and prosperity’ during state visit by Albanese

At 51, Johnson comes into the role without the burden of a high public profile, promising to restore trust in Congress under these exceptional circumstances. He assumes leadership following weeks of internal disputes, failed candidacies, and legislative inaction.

Questions remain, however, about Johnson’s ability to unite a deeply fragmented Republican conference, especially as the House delves immediately into contentious debates on government spending. Doubts also linger among Democrats, who are wary of his socially conservative record and his past support for Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election results.

In his inaugural address to the House, Johnson made frequent references to his Christian faith and his upbringing. He pledged to act swiftly on conservative priorities like support for Israel and strengthening border security. “The time for action is now,” Johnson declared, “I will not let you down.”

A constitutional attorney and former Louisiana state House member, Johnson was elected to the U.S. House in 2016. He is both the first Louisianan and the first Southerner to serve as Speaker since Republican Newt Gingrich of Georgia in the 1990s.

Among the most conservative GOP members, Johnson has consistently opposed abortion rights and was against last year’s legislation that would mandate states to recognize legal same-sex marriages.

Previously active on the House Judiciary Committee, Johnson gained some visibility as a prominent Republican interrogator during Trump’s first impeachment trial in 2019. He remained one of Trump’s principal defenders through the 2020 election, rallying support for an unsuccessful lawsuit aimed at overturning some election outcomes.

Trump expressed confidence in Johnson, stating that he will “make us all proud.” Former Georgia Rep. Doug Collins emphasized Johnson’s calm approach during turbulent times, particularly his advisory role using his constitutional law background.

Democrats have concerns about Johnson, particularly his past support for Trump’s efforts to contest the 2020 election results. Despite the controversies, Johnson has received support from both moderate and far-right Republicans.

Johnson is also an ardent supporter of Louisiana’s oil and gas sector and has been a recipient of significant campaign contributions from the industry. He has, like many of his Republican colleagues, downplayed the issue of climate change.

In an initial gesture after his election, Johnson expressed his willingness to work with Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer also expressed hopes for bipartisan cooperation to prevent a government shutdown.

While Johnson’s leadership has unified Republicans, at least temporarily, the longevity of this unity remains uncertain.

“Nobody dislikes him yet,” humorously noted Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky. “That’s his best attribute.”

Contributors to this report include Kevin Freking, Stephen Groves, Lisa Mascaro, Farnoush Amiri, Jill Colvin, and Matthew Daly from Big Big News.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mike Johnson

More about Mike Johnson

• Mike Johnson’s Congressional Profile
• History of the Speaker of the House
• Donald Trump’s Political Allies
• Overview of Louisiana Politics
• U.S. House Republican Conference
• GOP Struggle to Replace Kevin McCarthy
• Hakeem Jeffries’ Congressional Profile
• Chuck Schumer’s Senate Profile
• 2020 Presidential Election Controversies
• Republican Party Divisions and Future