Amid conflict and disagreements, Mike Johnson's political future is questioned again

Just months after Donald Trump praised House Speaker Mike Johnson for his loyalty during the passage of the Republicans major domestic policy bill, the political landscape around Johnson has shifted dramatically. In July, Trump called Johnson a great speaker who faithfully executed the White Houses agenda. Today, however, the Louisiana Republican has little to show beyond one significant far-right legislative victory.

As 2025 nears its close, Johnson is increasingly seen as a figurehead rather than a leader. The GOP struggles at the polls, many members are retiring or stepping down unexpectedly, and some lawmakers are bypassing Johnson with discharge petitions to push issues he prefers to avoid. Reports suggest the House speaker appears visibly frustrated and isolated.

The turmoil escalated this week when Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., a member of the House GOP leadership, publicly accused Johnson of dishonesty and protecting entrenched bureaucrats. In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, Stefanik went further, calling Johnson ineffective and warning he might not retain the confidence of his party heading into the midterms. She stated that most Republicans would support new leadership if a vote were held today.

Stefanik, who recently became chair of House Republican leadership, contrasted Johnson unfavorably with former Speaker Kevin McCarthy, describing Johnson as politically inexperienced and noting that House Republicans under his leadership are underperforming for the first time in the Trump era. She emphasized that Trump remains the central figure for the GOP and does not require Johnsons guidance.

The tension between Johnson and Stefanik highlights a broader unease within GOP leadership. According to reports from The New York Times, some Republicans believe Johnson may not complete his term as speaker, either due to potential losses in the upcoming elections or internal party challenges.

Currently, the House GOP has 220 members, but upcoming resignations and shifts could reduce that number to 218the bare minimum for a majority. Such a fragile majority raises the possibility that Johnson could lose his position even before the 2026 midterm elections take place.

The political stakes for Johnson are high, and his ability to maintain control of the House leadership remains uncertain as party divisions grow more pronounced.

Author: Sophia Brooks