DON'T WAIT.

We publish the objective news, period. If you want the facts, then sign up below and join our movement for objective news:

TOP STORIES

Latest News

Report: Trump Displeased with Speaker Johnson's Fiscal Decisions

 December 25, 2024

Amid tensions over a fiscal dispute in Congress, President-elect Donald Trump's dissatisfaction with House Speaker Mike Johnson has threatened to upend the latter's continuation in his leadership role.

Trump's unhappiness stems from Johnson's handling of a recent funding bill, raising questions about his future as House speaker, as Breitbart reports.

Johnson's role is under scrutiny following his attempt to pass a spending resolution packed with expenses that aligned more with Democratic Party preferences, contrary to Trump's wishes.

Legislative Conflicts Arise

Johnson responded to Trump's rejection by passing an alternative bill that excluded the debt ceiling hike and only funded the government until mid-March. This move diverged from Trump's directives, leading to increased tensions between the two.

According to Politico’s Rachael Bade, Trump's dissatisfaction was evident during discussions in Palm Beach, pointing to a rift over the funding deal and Johnson's leadership approach.

Trump was particularly taken aback by Johnson's initial willingness to collaborate with Democrats.

Trump's concerns about Johnson's capability to lead a narrow majority have grown amidst this legislative chaos.

Johnson's Uncertain Future

The potential for Johnson to maintain his leadership role is now in question, with Trump contemplating the impact of changing another Speaker.

"I don’t see how Johnson survives," a source close to Trump told Politico, signaling deep reservations about Johnson's political longevity.

Trump is reportedly observing media coverage and considering whether to initiate a leadership change, Politico's Rachael Bade reports: "Trump is sitting back and watching the coverage, I’m told, mulling whether it’s worth it to defenestrate another speaker."

With only a slim margin of error, Johnson could afford to lose just one Republican vote in the House without seeking Democratic Party support, adding to his vulnerability.

Electoral Strategies and Consequences

Up to 25 House Republicans are poised to oppose Johnson, which could force him to court Democratic votes to retain his position.

Senator Mitt Romney has suggested that Johnson's best chance to remain speaker is by securing votes from House Democrats.

However, aligning with Democrats would require a power-sharing agreement, potentially conflicting with Trump's post-election expectations and alienating his Republican base. Romney’s comments underscore the dilemma Johnson faces.

Decisive Moments Ahead

Johnson’s choices are stark: either garner support from Democrats and risk the ire of the Republican base or step down as Speaker.

These decisions are pivotal not only for his career but also for the broader political dynamics within the House.

This ongoing saga highlights the intricate power plays within the Republican Party and the challenges of leading a divided majority.

As the deadline approaches, Johnson's actions will significantly influence both his fate and the legislative direction under the new administration.