DC Bureau

Louisiana’s Mike Johnson Triumphs in Nail-Biting Vote to Become U.S. House Speaker

Published

2 months ago

01/03/2025

admin

U.S. Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La., center, and Rep. Marjorie Tayler Greene, R-Ga., left, talk with fellow representatives as they arrive for the first day of the 119th Congress in the House Chamber of the U.S. Capitol Building on Jan. 3, 2025 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON — U.S. House Republicans made important leadership changes on Friday by electing Louisiana Rep. Mike Johnson as the House Speaker for the 119th Congress. This decision comes after a period of speculation regarding potential disputes within the GOP over leadership positions.

Johnson, who first took office as Speaker in October 2023, will now guide Republicans as they pursue an ambitious legislative agenda. Key priorities include a comprehensive overhaul of the country’s immigration system and significant changes to the tax code.

In the crucial vote, Johnson secured the backing of 218 Republican members, while 215 Democrats cast their votes for New York Rep. Hakeem Jeffries. Notably, several representatives initially supported different candidates but later changed their votes to Johnson after engaging in discussions both on and off the House floor.

The GOP’s control over government was solidified following the November elections, which will formally take effect on Jan. 20, coinciding with President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. Trump publicly endorsed Johnson’s candidacy for Speaker.

This is a developing news story and updates will follow.

Last updated 12:39 p.m., Jan. 3, 2025