Speaker Mike Johnson's troubles escalate amid criticism from Elise Stefanik

As 2025 began, House Speaker Mike Johnson stepped into a difficult political landscape. Although Republicans held the White House and both chambers of Congress, the Louisiana lawmaker was constrained by a slim majority and a caucus increasingly unwilling to fall in line behind him.

With the year now nearing its close, Johnson selected in 2023 only after several failed attempts to choose a speaker has shown visible signs of strain. During a recent appearance on The Katie Miller Podcast, he conveyed a sense of exhaustion that suggested he was struggling to keep pace with the demands of his position. According to The New York Times, the interview painted a picture of a leader barely managing to stay afloat as his control over his conference weakens.

The situation deteriorated further this week. Politico reported that Johnson was publicly accused by a member of his own leadership team of shielding the so-called deep state. Rep. Elise Stefanik escalated tensions by calling the speaker dishonest and backing an initiative to force a vote on legislation he had been blocking a notable sign of a fractured Republican Conference. Punchbowl News described the clash as an open war between Stefanik and Johnson.

Stefanik, who is running for governor of New York next year, has been pushing for a specific provision in the National Defense Authorization Act and has sharply criticized Johnson for his stance. Beyond the policy dispute, the episode highlights a broader reality: Johnson may hold the gavel, but his influence appears increasingly limited.

Theres a lot of frustration in the House right now with how ineffective this body has been in recent months, said Republican Rep. Kevin Kiley of California in an interview with Politico. He argued that the chamber has surrendered portions of its authority, failed to lead on significant issues, and even moved to restrict the autonomy of individual lawmakers.

At the same time, a growing number of Republicans are walking away from their seats some before their terms expire while others sidestep the speaker entirely through discharge petitions to advance legislation he would rather avoid.

Johnson even joked on the podcast, Im not really a speaker of the House. The remark reflects more than humor: his alignment with former President Donald Trump has led Trump to reportedly declare, Im the speaker and the president. Depending on how political dynamics evolve, Johnsons quip could become a literal reality within a year.

Author: Harper Simmons