Staff Reports
In his first interview since becoming House Speaker, Mike Johnson (R-LA) shared his concerns about certain representatives and his frustrations with the Biden administration. Johnson, in a conversation with Sean Hannity on Fox News, sidestepped questions about censuring or expelling individuals like Reps. George Santos (R-NY) or Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) and instead focused on the delicate position Congress finds itself in.
With just a four-seat majority in the House, Johnson pointed out the potential for further reduction in the coming weeks and months. He emphasized the need for due process and allowing the system of justice to play out when it comes to individuals like Santos. While he did not directly address Tlaib, it is clear that Johnson is not eager to take strong action against representatives that could potentially endanger their slim majority.
It was great sitting down with @SeanHannity tonight to discuss unifying this Congress to address the challenges our country is facing. Watch the full interview here. pic.twitter.com/XskNGHR6uD
— Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) October 27, 2023
Johnson did not hold back when it came to criticizing President Biden, agreeing with Hannity’s assertion that Biden is suffering from mental decline and labeling him a failed president. He repeatedly highlighted the differences between his own record and that of former President Donald Trump, whom he praised.
Although Johnson has faced criticism for his past stances on issues such as gay marriage and abortion, he stated that he has no partisan agenda as speaker and is solely focused on what is best for the American people and defending the rule of law.
When asked about navigating the division within his own party and maintaining a majority, Johnson highlighted the importance of truth, transparency, and relationships. He expressed gratitude for the trust his colleagues have in him and vowed to govern well. Johnson acknowledged that compromises would need to be made but assured his colleagues that he would never ask them to compromise their core principles.
In a nod to Ronald Reagan, Johnson stated that he would rather achieve 80% of what he wants than go over the cliff waving the flag. He concluded the interview on an optimistic note, expressing his belief in the future of America.
