Mike Johnson’s ‘MAGA’ Record: Why Moderate House Republicans Remain Unconcerned
WASHINGTON – Mike Johnson’s ascent to the speakership marks a notable shift to the right for House Republicans, posing a significant test for the more moderate faction of the party. In comparison to his predecessors, the Louisiana Republican is staunchly conservative, having voted against Ukraine aid, the codification of same-sex marriage, and supporting federal legislation to restrict abortion rights.
While it remains to be seen what Johnson’s exact policy agenda will entail – as he has yet to address reporters’ questions on the matter – moderate House Republicans express confidence in his leadership, citing the Republicans’ slim four-seat majority in the House. Each member wields significant power through their vote, allowing moderates to exert their influence, just as ultraconservatives did during former Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s tenure.
Speaking to reporters, Rep. Marc Molinaro, R-N.Y., who represents a district won by President Joe Biden in the 2020 election, brushed off concerns that Johnson might push the conference in a more conservative direction. Molinaro highlighted Johnson’s commitment to representing the interests of all members and districts collectively.
Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., another moderate from a Biden-won district, also dismissed apprehensions surrounding Johnson’s voting record, emphasizing that each representative must prioritize their individual districts. He was confident that personal views or past voting patterns would not hinder the collective effort to secure the necessary 218 votes for legislation.
From the perspective of the party’s right flank, however, Johnson’s election as speaker represents a significant victory for ultraconservative lawmakers. Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., a leader in the effort to remove Johnson’s predecessor, Kevin McCarthy, bestowed upon Johnson the moniker “MAGA Mike Johnson,” aligning him with former President Donald Trump.
Gaetz emphasized that Johnson played a pivotal role in Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election, leading a letter to the Supreme Court seeking the invalidation of results in crucial battleground states. While some might view Johnson’s conservative credentials as a potential drawback, Rep. Mike Garcia, R-Calif., believes Johnson’s understanding of the conference’s dynamics, given their slim majority, is essential for governing effectively.
Garcia, whose district was also won by Biden, reassured constituents that Johnson’s views do not reflect those of his district and that the focus should be on effective legislation. Similarly, Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., another representative from a Biden-won district, expressed confidence in their ability to shape discussions within the conference, citing the significance of their voice within the narrow four-seat majority.
Overall, while Johnson’s conservative record may concern some, moderate House Republicans remain untroubled, confident in their ability to influence proceedings and prioritize their constituents’ interests.
