The failure of Speaker Mike Johnson’s spending plan highlights a harsh reality that many politicians have experienced: unwavering loyalty to Donald Trump is not reciprocated. With the U.S. on the brink of a government shutdown, divided Republicans are struggling to find a way forward as Johnson’s position as speaker hangs in the balance.
Despite months of aligning himself closely with Trump, Johnson’s grip on power is far from secure. Trump’s advisers hint that Johnson’s speakership is in jeopardy unless he complies with Trump’s wishes. The president-elect’s willingness to abandon allies who no longer serve his interests has left Johnson scrambling to salvage his relationship with Trump.
As Johnson works to mend ties with Trump and secure his speakership, Republicans are wary of opposing the president’s agenda. Trump’s allies are actively rallying support for a new spending bill, warning Republicans not to defy the incoming president’s directives.
Amidst mounting uncertainty about Johnson’s future as speaker, some GOP members are considering alternative candidates, including Jim Jordan, Steve Scalise, Tom Emmer, and Byron Donalds. Johnson faces skepticism and criticism from within his party, with some members undecided on their support for him in the upcoming speaker race.
While Johnson faces challenges in maintaining his speakership, some conservatives believe threats to his position are mere bluster. With Trump’s support, Johnson may have a fighting chance at retaining his role as speaker, but the volatile nature of Trump’s loyalties leaves Johnson’s future uncertain. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.), miembro del Freedom Caucus, sobre las posibilidades de Johnson de seguir siendo presidente.
Preguntado si el respaldo de Trump al plan de gastos ayuda a Johnson el 3 de enero, el representante Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) dijo “el tiempo lo dirá”.
“Me gusta Mike”, agregó Norman, quien se opone al último plan de gastos. “[Pero] ningún proyecto de ley es mejor que un mal proyecto de ley”.
Meridith McGraw, Meredith Lee Hill, Holly Otterbein contribuyeron a este informe.
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