Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) mentioned Thursday he had not requested President-elect Trump to make calls on his behalf to Republicans who’re nonetheless on the fence about his bid to retain the gavel.
“No, I haven’t, no,” Johnson informed reporters in a gaggle. “I met with him yesterday at Mar-a-Lago. We had a great visit. But I think this is going to turn out well tomorrow. And we’ll be unified, and we’ll get all this done.”
Johnson can not afford to lose a couple of Republican within the Speakership vote, assuming all members are current and voting. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) has already mentioned he is not going to vote for Johnson, whereas others are in search of assurances from Johnson on sure coverage points.
All Democrats are anticipated to be current Friday to vote for Home Minority Chief Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), the Democratic whip’s workplace informed The Hill, that means Johnson is not going to get any wiggle room from their absences.
Different potential holdouts embody Reps. Victoria Spartz (R-Ind.), Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.), Eric Burlison (R-Mo.), Ralph Norman (R-S.C.), Scott Perry (R-Pa.), and Andy Harris (R-Md.).
Trump reportedly spoke Thursday with Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), who has voiced skepticism about Johnson’s capacity to win the mandatory votes on Friday. A Trump spokesperson didn’t reply to a request for remark about whether or not he had known as different lawmakers.
Trump informed reporters on Tuesday that he would make calls on Johnson’s behalf “if necessary,” however projected confidence the Louisiana Republican might win the gavel.
