Reps. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) and Keith Self (R-Texas) each recounted their cellphone name with President-elect Trump earlier than switching their votes to again Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), with Norman saying it helped reassure him about Johnson.
Together with Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), Norman and Self initially voted for different individuals for Speaker, showing to disclaim Johnson a win on the primary poll. However whereas Massie held out to vote as an alternative for Home Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), Norman and Self switched their votes in favor of Johnson after Trump referred to as them.
Norman advised reporters Trump and Johnson assured him and Self that Johnson would “fight for us” and “fight for everybody.” He mentioned they wished to press Johnson to ensure he’s severe about addressing the federal price range and border safety.
Self referred to as it a “lively” dialogue.
Norman mentioned he knew the place Trump stood, supporting Johnson’s bid, however the name with the president-elect was useful. He mentioned Trump argued Johnson is likable and is the one one who might get sufficient votes to be elected Speaker.
However Norman additionally defended his decisionmaking course of in an interview with Fox Information after the vote.
“The only way I had to let my voice be heard was what I did. I would do it again,” he mentioned.
Quickly after Johnson clinched the Speakership, members of the Home Freedom Caucus launched a letter issuing a listing of calls for for Johnson as Speaker and the laws he ought to convey to the ground. Norman was one of many 11 signatories.
