House Speaker Mike Johnson is facing a challenge to his leadership as tensions with President-elect Donald Trump rise over a recent government funding deal, with Johnson’s ability to retain his position as Speaker of the House now uncertain.

Trump is reportedly unhappy with both the funding deal Johnson passed and his performance as Speaker, adding complexity to Johnson's chances of remaining in power after a critical House vote in January, as Breitbart reports.

Johnson, who was elected Speaker earlier this year, needs Trump’s backing to maintain his position when the House votes on renewing or replacing him on January 3.

However, Johnson’s recent efforts to pass a massive continuing resolution to fund the government have left the president-elect frustrated. The bill, which included higher spending and provisions viewed as favorable to Democrats, went against Trump’s desire for a smaller package with an extension of the debt ceiling.

In response to Trump’s opposition, Johnson eventually passed a version of the bill that avoided a debt ceiling hike and only extended government funding until March 14. While this decision was seen as a compromise to keep the government open, it did not satisfy Trump, who was hoping for a more robust solution to the debt ceiling issue.

Politico’s Rachael Bade reported that Trump was not only displeased with the deal but also upset by Johnson’s handling of the situation. “Trump felt blindsided by the deal Johnson struck with Democrats,” Bade wrote. “He was unhappy that he didn’t get the debt ceiling hike he made clear he wanted, and in the end, he was unimpressed with the entire chaotic process.”

These tensions come at a critical time for Johnson, who faces a narrow majority in the House. According to sources, the incoming administration is questioning whether Johnson can effectively manage the House with such a slim margin. As of the weekend, it remains unclear whether Trump will help Johnson keep his speakership.

Several Republicans close to Trump have expressed skepticism about Johnson’s ability to retain the gavel. A Trump insider told Politico, “I don’t see how Johnson survives.” These concerns were echoed by Sen. Mitt Romney, who argued that Johnson’s best chance of remaining Speaker would require support from House Democrats, a move that could alienate his Republican base.

Johnson’s Future Hinges on Democratic Support

Johnson’s options are now limited: He can either secure Democrat votes, risking backlash from the GOP or face the possibility of losing his position altogether.

Despite the challenges, Johnson may not have much choice but to turn to Democrats. Romney pointed out that Johnson can only afford to lose one Republican vote without the backing of any Democrats. Up to 25 Republicans are reportedly willing to vote against him, which could make a power-sharing agreement with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries necessary.

Such an agreement would likely require Johnson to make significant concessions to Democrats, a scenario that would be deeply unpopular with Trump and much of the Republican base. For Trump, who won a landslide victory to implement his own agenda, the idea of sharing power with Democrats is a nonstarter.

The fallout from this standoff could have long-term consequences for Johnson’s leadership. As Bade reported, Trump has not been quick to offer public support, and there is speculation at Mar-a-Lago about whether it’s worth it for the former president to intervene.

Trump, sitting back and watching the developments, is reportedly considering whether it would be worth his time to “defenestrate another speaker,” as one source put it.

January Vote Will Determine Speaker’s Fate

As January’s vote approaches, Johnson will be forced to navigate a delicate balance between maintaining Republican unity and securing enough votes to keep his position as speaker.

The situation facing Johnson is one of uncertainty. As speaker, he needs to show leadership and gain the trust of both Republicans and Democrats. However, his failure to secure a deal that satisfies Trump has cast doubt on his ability to navigate such a divided Congress.

In the coming weeks, Johnson will be under increasing pressure to secure votes from both sides of the aisle. Whether this will involve a controversial power-sharing agreement with Democrats or a dramatic shift in his approach to governance remains to be seen. Regardless, Johnson’s ability to keep his position hinges on his ability to resolve these tensions and gain enough support to retain the speakership.

Uncertain Future for Johnson

As the debate over his leadership unfolds, Johnson must contend with not only the demands of his party but also the expectations of Trump and the broader Republican base. If he cannot find a way to resolve these issues, he may be facing an uphill battle to hold onto power.

As the situation develops, all eyes will be on January’s House vote to determine whether Speaker Mike Johnson can weather the storm or if his tenure will be cut short. The outcome will have far-reaching implications for the GOP and the future direction of the House of Representatives.