Donald Trump’s recent pardon of Binance founder Changpeng Zhao has sparked controversy, but House Speaker Mike Johnson has repeatedly claimed ignorance when questioned about it, along with other pressing issues. This pattern of not knowing has extended to other significant matters, including Trump’s reported dealings with the Justice Department and even the White House’s import of Argentinian beef. This lack of awareness has been noticed by many, leading some to question whether Johnson is truly uninformed or strategically feigning ignorance to avoid difficult political questions, suggesting a possible facade of cluelessness.
Read More
Adelita Grijalva, a newly elected congresswoman, is being blocked from being sworn in by House Speaker Mike Johnson, potentially hindering Democrats’ ability to force a petition for the release of the Epstein files. Grijalva believes Johnson’s actions are linked to the files, which could contain information about Prince Andrew and former President Trump’s past associations with Jeffrey Epstein. Johnson cites the government shutdown as the reason for the delay, but critics point out other Republicans were sworn in during similar circumstances. Grijalva expresses concern about potential obstruction and redaction of the files, should they be released.
Read More
The current House Speaker, Mike Johnson, has seemingly prioritized rhetoric over legislative action, leaving the House out of session for extended periods. This strategy, which began well before mid-September, has drawn criticism from GOP members, despite the caucus’s history of unity. The reduced work schedule has not only delayed legislative progress, such as addressing expiring Affordable Care Act subsidies, but also hindered the swearing-in of a new Democratic representative, preventing a vote on the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files. Such inaction, reminiscent of the “Do Nothing” Congress of 1948, is unlikely to be a sustainable strategy.
Read More
During a recent C-SPAN call, Speaker Mike Johnson was confronted by a Republican military spouse worried about the government shutdown’s impact on her family’s financial well-being and access to healthcare. Despite her pleas, Johnson deflected blame onto Democrats, prompting criticism for his response. Reports indicate that Democrats and some Republicans are pushing for legislation to ensure military pay during the shutdown, which Johnson is currently blocking. The article emphasizes the disparity between the financial security of Congress members and the struggles faced by military families as the shutdown continues.
Read More
The speaker expressed his caution when walking down stairs, emphasizing the importance of avoiding falls, referencing past presidents who have stumbled. He then contrasted his approach with that of a former president, whom he criticized but acknowledged for his quick descent down stairs. The speaker imitated the former president’s stair-walking style and shared how he would never adopt such a dangerous practice. Despite the unnecessary comments about the former president, it appears he may have some musical talent.
Read More
House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed a desire for “full transparency” regarding the Jeffrey Epstein case in a CBS News interview, echoing public concerns about the investigation. Johnson stated that all individuals involved in Epstein’s crimes should be brought to justice, dismissing claims that the case is a hoax. While the Trump administration faces pressure to release more information, Johnson has been hesitant to force a vote on the matter, accusing Democrats of political maneuvering. The Justice Department is currently reviewing requests to unseal grand jury testimony from the Epstein cases, while the House has adjourned for summer break.
Read More
House Speaker Mike Johnson’s reelection bid was nearly derailed by three Republican representatives who voted against him in the first ballot. Despite facing significant opposition stemming from past funding disputes and accusations of collaborating with Democrats, Johnson secured enough votes to win reelection, thanks to last-minute concessions from two dissenting members. His victory, however, came after a tense period of negotiation and underscores the ongoing internal divisions within the House Republican caucus. President Trump’s public support played a role in securing Johnson’s win.
Read More
House Republicans are poised to elect their Speaker on Friday, but incumbent Mike Johnson faces an uncertain path to victory due to the party’s narrow majority. Johnson’s need for near-unanimous GOP support is threatened by opposition from the far-right and warnings from moderates against concessions. While endorsements from Trump and Musk offer support, Johnson must navigate negotiations with detractors, acknowledging he can only afford to lose one or two Republican votes. Several far-right members have yet to commit, raising concerns about potential deals that could alienate more moderate Republicans.
Read More
Mike Johnson’s reelection as House Speaker faces significant challenges due to a narrow Republican majority and opposition from within the party. While Republicans hold 220 seats, one vacancy and at least one announced defection leave Johnson one vote short of the necessary 218. Further defections, stemming from dissatisfaction with his leadership and spending policies, are possible, potentially delaying the start of the 119th Congress and jeopardizing the confirmation of the 2024 election results. Failure to elect a Speaker before January 6th could lead to unprecedented constitutional uncertainty, potentially resulting in Senator Chuck Grassley becoming acting President.
Read More
House Speaker Mike Johnson faces an uphill battle securing the speakership due to the narrowest Republican House majority in nearly a century—a mere 219 to 215 seats initially, shrinking further to 217 to 215 as GOP members depart for the Trump administration. This razor-thin margin leaves Johnson vulnerable to defections, requiring near-unanimous Republican support to pass legislation and potentially necessitating Democratic votes. The already precarious situation is exacerbated by Republican dissent, with at least one representative publicly opposing Johnson’s bid. President-elect Trump’s endorsement, while helpful, doesn’t guarantee Johnson’s success.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker