The GOP isn’t playing around this time. They’re ready to fight back against the policies of the radical Left.
And House Republicans have made a decision that’s sent shockwaves through Capitol Hill.
On Wednesday, Republicans nominated House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) as their pick to lead the House of Representatives in the upcoming session of Congress beginning next year. Reports indicate that Johnson secured unanimous support during a voice vote, solidifying his candidacy for the formal House vote expected in early January.
Earlier in the day, President-elect Donald Trump met with House Republicans on Capitol Hill and expressed his full backing for Johnson, saying he was with him “all the way,” as reported by several sources according to The Daily Wire.
Despite initial discussions within the conservative Freedom Caucus about potentially challenging Johnson or calling for a secret ballot, members ultimately agreed to proceed with the voice vote, according to Punchbowl News’ Melanie Zanona.
POLITICO’s Olivia Beavers reported that a deal had been struck to block amendments aimed at punishing members. In return, the threshold for a motion to vacate was raised to nine members, providing more stability to the Speaker’s tenure.
Johnson first assumed the speakership in October 2023 after then-Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) was removed by his peers. This past session saw Johnson navigating challenges from a Democrat-led Senate and President Joe Biden. However, with recent GOP victories, Republicans are set to control both the Senate and the White House in the upcoming session, significantly shifting the legislative landscape.
In a letter to fellow Republicans, Johnson outlined his policy agenda, which aligns closely with Trump’s “Make America Great Again” platform.
“The mandate that has been delivered shows that a majority of Americans are eager for secure borders, lower costs, peace through strength, and a return to common sense,” Johnson wrote, emphasizing the historic opportunity for a unified GOP government. “If we meet this historic moment together, the next two years can result in the most consequential Congress of the modern era,” he added.
Wednesday also saw the election of other House GOP leaders. Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) and Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN) retained their respective positions for another term.
With Trump’s decision to nominate current House GOP Conference Chair Elise Stefanik (R-NY) for the role of U.N. ambassador, the Conference voted on her successor. Reps. Lisa McClain (R-MI) and Kat Cammack (R-FL) vied for the position, with McClain ultimately prevailing through a reported 146-67 vote.
“I am honored to be chosen by my colleagues,” McClain posted on X, adding, “I am excited to lead our unified team alongside President Trump and [Speaker Johnson] to pass the America First agenda.”
As the GOP Conference chair, McClain will be responsible for organizing Republican members in the House. She succeeds Stefanik, who has held the position since 2021 when she replaced then-Rep. Liz Cheney (R-WY).
McClain, formerly the House GOP Conference secretary, has a strong conservative track record, holding a 70% rating in the Heritage Action Scorecard. She received backing from Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-WY), who praised McClain for her early support of Trump and efforts to help turn her home state red.
Other GOP leadership races concluded as well. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-AL) lost his re-election bid for Republican Policy Committee chairman to Rep. Kevin Hern (R-OK).
Meanwhile, Rep. Blake Moore (R-UT) secured another term as House GOP Conference vice chair.
Rep. Erin Houchin (R-IN), after stepping out of the Conference chair race, won the position of secretary over Rep. Mark Alford (R-MO). Additionally, Rep. Richard Hudson (R-NC) was re-elected as NRCC chair.
Following the 2024 elections, Republicans are projected to have a narrow majority in the House. However, Trump’s anticipated selection of multiple GOP members for his administration may slightly impact that margin.
House Democrats are scheduled to hold their leadership elections next week. Meanwhile, Senate Republicans have chosen Sen. John Thune (R-SD) as the new leader of their conference, succeeding Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY).
Stay tuned to The Federalist Wire.
