Rep. Mike Johnson of Louisiana has been elected as the next speaker of the House. This staunch social conservative introduced a bill similar to Florida’s controversial “Don’t Say Gay” law and has played a significant role in efforts to overturn the 2020 election. After three failed GOP speakership bids, Johnson secured the unanimous support of House Republicans to become the next speaker.
At 51 years old, Johnson is relatively unknown, serving as a congressman since 2016. His lack of major enemies and ability to build good relationships with the hard right flank of the conference contributed to his selection. Additionally, he is seen as collegial and low-profile enough for more vulnerable lawmakers to accept his leadership.
Johnson became the party’s nominee after House Majority Whip Tom Emmer’s candidacy was derailed by former President Donald Trump, who referred to Emmer as a “RINO” (Republican In Name Only). Despite a brief nomination of just over four hours, Emmer ultimately withdrew from the race. Prior to Emmer, Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise also had unsuccessful bids for the speakership.
As the speaker, Johnson will hold the second-highest position in the presidential line of succession, following Vice President Kamala Harris. Here’s more information about him:
His Controversial Legislative Actions
In 2022, Johnson led the introduction of the “Stop the Sexualization of Children Act,” a bill similar to Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” law that prohibits federal funds from supporting sexually-oriented programs for children under 10. However, the bill’s definition of “sexually-oriented material” led to criticism from the Human Rights Campaign, who condemned it as an attempt to stigmatize the LGBTQ+ community.
Johnson has also been a key player in former President Trump’s efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election. He voted against certifying the electoral college results, actively supported Texas’s lawsuit challenging the vote certification in multiple states, and urged Trump to keep fighting for his re-election. These actions have made him a controversial figure within the House.
His Position on US Aid to Ukraine
Johnson has consistently voted against sending US aid to Ukraine. He joined 56 other Republicans in 2022 in voting against this action, stating concerns about the allocation of funds and prioritizing issues within the United States, such as border security, domestic struggles, and economic challenges. This perspective may impact future decisions regarding US aid to Ukraine, jeopardizing their ongoing battle against Russia.
Moonlighting as a Professor
Johnson has earned over $120,000 by teaching online courses at Liberty University, an evangelical college. With a background in constitutional law and a commitment to free enterprise, he has served as a professor at the university’s Helms School of Government. Liberty University, founded by televangelist Jerry Falwell Sr., is a private Christian institution that gained attention during the Trump administration due to its alignment with the former president’s policies.
His Commitment to Covenant Marriage
Johnson and his wife Kelly are in a “covenant marriage,” a legal arrangement that makes it more difficult to obtain a divorce. As proponents of traditional Christian values, the couple voluntarily opted for this type of marriage. Under Louisiana state law, couples entering a covenant marriage must seek marital counseling before divorce and have limited grounds for dissolution. Johnson and his wife have expressed their belief in the importance of marriage and the impact of divorce on families.
Controversial Stance on LGBTQ+ Issues
Johnson has a history of conservative views on LGBTQ+ rights. He previously advocated for criminalizing gay sex, arguing that states have the authority to prohibit same-sex sexual activity. He also described homosexuality as “inherently unnatural” and a “dangerous lifestyle.” These viewpoints have drawn criticism from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups.
