Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) said he was “dead or dead” in the speaker's race after President-elect Trump announced his support for incumbent Speaker Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana). declared.''
Burchett went on Fox News on Monday and said he believed Johnson would receive enough votes to remain speaker.
“I think he will eventually do that,” he said. “I think the die was pretty much cast.”
Still, Burchett didn't jump to replace Johnson. He said he would wait and make a decision on Friday.
“I'm going to talk to Mike and some people and maybe even President Trump and talk about some of my ideas and issues,” Burchett said.
The House is scheduled to vote on a new speaker on Friday. Johnson's leadership position is in jeopardy, with some hardline conservatives angry about his spending following the continuation of the resolution and support for Ukraine.
In a post on X, President Trump praised Johnson, calling him a “good, hard-working, and deeply religious man.” He said he believed Johnson would “do the right thing.”
Burchett did not endorse Johnson as speaker, but said the Louisiana lawmaker was a “good friend” to Johnson and admired his religious values.
Burchett's Republican colleague, Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), has vowed not to vote for Johnson to remain chairman. He has publicly opposed President Trump and criticized Prime Minister Boris Johnson as a “potato” who has exceeded his budget.
If Mr Massey votes against Mr Johnson, he can only cast one more vote against Mr Johnson if all members of the House are present and choose to vote on the issue.
Several Republicans, like Burchett, have not indicated they would vote for Johnson ahead of Friday's vote.
