President-elect Donald Trump stated on Dec. 31 that he believes House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) will secure enough votes to retain his position, despite opposition from within the Republican Party ahead of a contentious speakership race.
Trump spoke with reporters outside a New Year’s Eve event at Mar-a-Lago in Florida, expressing confidence in Johnson’s chances as the House prepares to vote for a new speaker on Jan. 3, marking the start of the 119th congressional session.
Addressing Republican lawmakers hesitant to back Johnson, Trump described him as “a good man” and “a wonderful person,” predicting he would garner the necessary support. “We are going to have a great time in Washington. I think we are going to get great support,” Trump remarked.
When asked if he might lobby lawmakers directly, Trump said he would do so “if necessary.” He added, “He’s the one that can win right now, people like him, almost everybody likes him.”
This followed Trump’s full endorsement of Johnson on Dec. 30 via Truth Social, where he called the speaker “a good, hard-working, religious man” who would “do the right thing.” Trump wrote, “Mike has my Complete & Total Endorsement. MAGA!!!”
In response, Johnson expressed gratitude on X (formerly Twitter), stating he was “honored and humbled” by Trump’s support. “Together, we will quickly deliver on your America First agenda and usher in the new golden age of America. The American people demand and deserve that we waste no time. Let’s get to work!” Johnson posted.
Opposition from Some GOP Lawmakers
Despite his high-profile endorsement, Johnson faces resistance from some Republicans. His detractors cite his role in brokering a year-end funding package with Democrats to prevent a government shutdown and his support for aid to Ukraine.
Representative Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) openly criticized Johnson, stating on X that while he respects Trump, the endorsement will “work out about as well as his endorsement of Speaker Paul Ryan.” Massie further accused Johnson of “partnering with the Democrats” to allocate funds to Ukraine, expand surveillance on Americans, and overspend the federal budget.
Similarly, Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) has had a contentious history with Johnson. She previously sought to oust him in May over his support for a $1.2 trillion spending package and a $95 billion foreign aid bill. Greene has not yet disclosed whether she will back him in the upcoming vote.
Members of the House Freedom Caucus, including Representatives Andy Harris (R-Md.) and Scott Perry (R-Pa.), have expressed doubts about Johnson’s speakership, while Chip Roy (R-Texas) said on Dec. 31 that he was undecided.
On the other hand, Republicans like Representative Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) have voiced support for Johnson, hoping he retains the gavel.
The slim Republican majority in the House allows Johnson little room for dissent, making the upcoming vote critical. The Epoch Times reached out to Johnson for comment but received no response by publication time.
