House Republicans Select Mike Johnson As Speaker-Designate In Unanimous Vote

Washington, D.C. – House Republicans announced Mike Johnson, GOP Conference Vice Chair from Louisiana, as their speaker-designate after a day of closed-door meetings on Tuesday. Johnson becomes the fourth Republican nominee for the position in the past three weeks. House GOP lawmakers expressed unity under Johnson’s leadership and scheduled a House-wide vote on the matter for Wednesday.

Representative Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., lauded Johnson’s qualities, saying, “I think he would be an excellent choice because… he’s very cerebral,” and added, “He’s kind of a goober… but I dig that about him.” Burchett, one of eight House Republicans who voted to oust ex-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy three weeks ago, believes Johnson brings a unique perspective to Washington.

Rep. Michael Cloud, R-Texas, described Johnson as “capable” and a “good man,” emphasizing the importance of selecting the right person for the American people.

Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., voiced his support for Johnson, saying, “Mike is honest, hardworking, and principled — he is a great man and will make a great speaker.”

Earlier in the day, House Republicans had elected Majority Whip Tom Emmer, R-Minn., as their speaker. However, opposition, including former President Donald Trump, led to Emmer’s withdrawal from the race. A subsequent candidate forum saw Johnson emerge as the preferred choice.

During a roll call vote, Johnson received unanimous support, with no members voting against him and only a few voting “present.” Johnson vowed to uphold conservative values in a press conference after the vote, emphasizing unity and receiving enthusiastic cheers from House Republicans.

While some lawmakers noted that about 19 members were missing during the vote, others remained confident in Johnson’s leadership. Rep. John Rutherford, R-Fla., expressed his belief that the absences would not pose a problem, and Rep. Ben Cline, R-Va., emphasized the unity and mission ahead.