The House narrowly elected Speaker Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) to a second term in the first vote on Friday.
At the final count, Mr Johnson received 218 votes, the minimum number needed to secure the Speaker's seat. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York received 215 votes.
Seven Republicans, including Texas Rep. Chip Roy, initially opted out of the race but later changed their votes to Johnson. Three Republicans initially voted entirely for the other members. Republican Rep. Ralph Norman of South Carolina voted for Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio, and Rep. Keith Self of Texas voted for Rep. Byron Donald of Florida, but ultimately both friend changed Their votes went to Johnson.
Kentucky Republican Congressman Thomas Massie was the only lawmaker to vote against Johnson in the final count. select He was replaced by House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minnesota).
Given the party's slim four-seat majority, Johnson was only given one “no” vote, which Massey had claimed by Friday. In addition to Mr. Massey, several Republicans, including Mr. Roy, expressed hesitation in supporting Mr. Johnson, citing financial concerns.
“The Republican Party has a mandate to implement the America First Agenda, and as Speaker this will be my priority.”
“We saw this movie in 2023, and we all know sequels are always terrible,” said Republican Rep. Mike Collins of Georgia. said Posted by X after voting.
Former Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) hold a press conference at Trump's Mar-a-Lago mansion in Palm Beach, Florida, on April 12, 2024. Photo by Joe Radle/Getty Images
Minutes before the House was to vote on Speaker Johnson. released In a last-ditch effort to appeal to potential defectors and secure a second term, a long-term effort toward “fiscal consolidation” was undertaken.
“Republicans have a real opportunity over the next two years to deliver meaningful spending reform that eliminates trillions of dollars in waste, fraud and abuse and ends the weaponization of government,” Johnson said. said. “As we advance President Trump's America First policies, I will lead House Republicans in reducing the size and scope of the federal government, holding the bureaucracy accountable, and moving America onto a more sustainable fiscal path.” is.”
“If we want to restore fiscal responsibility, we need to start by being transparent about the funds being spent, address the problems that are discovered, and then hold accountable those who misspend the funds,” Johnson said. He continued. “The Republican Party has a mandate to implement the America First Agenda, and as Speaker this will be my priority.”
Despite a tumultuous year-end spending battle, Mr Johnson also secured the support of President-elect Donald Trump on Monday and gave him a last-minute “luck” boost on Friday hours before the 119th Congress opened. .
President Trump: “I wish Speaker of the House Mike Johnson the best of luck today. He's a very talented person, and his approval rating is approaching 100%.'' said In a post on Truth Social. “Mike's win today would be a huge victory for the Republican Party and a reaffirmation of the most important presidential election in 129 years!! – A huge affirmation indeed. MAGA!”
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