WASHINGTON — Rep. Mike Johnson, a previously unassuming lawmaker from Louisiana, recently found himself thrust into the spotlight when he became speaker of the House. This sudden change in status has led to a whirlwind of activity for the congressman. He now has a security detail, meets with world leaders, and must deal with major issues like wars and potential government shutdowns. Even tourists in the Capitol are asking for photos with him.
Johnson likened his new life to an F5 hurricane, using his Louisiana roots to illustrate the dramatic impact the speaker’s role has had on him. Despite the challenges, Johnson successfully navigated his first week as speaker without making any major missteps. He held a successful news conference, fielded questions from Senate Republicans, and led the passage of an aid package for Israel. However, he knows that the heaviest work is yet to come. In the next two weeks, Johnson will have to negotiate with President Joe Biden and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to prevent a government shutdown and provide aid to Ukraine and Israel.
While Johnson may be new to the role of speaker, he has already made efforts to become acquainted with Washington’s power players. He has met with President Biden, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, and other key figures. Unlike his predecessor, Johnson is making an effort to develop positive relationships with the administration.
Johnson’s supporters acknowledge that his honeymoon period as speaker will be short-lived. However, they believe that he has already proven himself to be a unifying force within the GOP Conference. His unanimous support for speaker after a divisive battle to replace Kevin McCarthy has brought a sense of peace to the party. According to Rep. Warren Davidson, Johnson has shown that it’s possible to be both conservative and kind.
Despite his lack of experience and relationships in Washington, Johnson’s allies believe that he has an advantage. While others may not know him well, he has already familiarized himself with key figures in the capital, giving him a head start in negotiations. Johnson has met with Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Republicans to discuss important issues like aid to Ukraine and future government funding. He has expressed support for aid to Ukraine and favors combining it with border security policies. Johnson has also indicated a preference for a short-term funding measure to keep the government open.
While Johnson has received unanimous support from Republicans, his early days as speaker have not been without criticism. Some Republicans, such as Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, were unhappy with his handling of an aid package for Israel and his failure to pass a resolution censuring Rep. Rashida Tlaib. Democrats were also frustrated with Johnson’s approach, feeling that he prioritized partisan objectives over the interests of democratic allies.
Overall, Johnson’s transition from relative unknown to speaker of the House has been a rapid and challenging one. However, he has shown a willingness to take on the role and has already made efforts to build relationships and navigate the complex landscape of Washington politics. Only time will tell how successful he will be in leading the House and addressing the pressing issues facing the country.
