As the House gears up for a critical vote to elect the next speaker, GOP hardliners are making demands and holding out their support, creating a tense atmosphere within the party.
Unlike his predecessor Kevin McCarthy, who secured the speakership after a lengthy 15-ballot process in 2023, Mike Johnson is taking a different approach. Johnson's allies have stated that he is not willing to engage in backroom deals to secure the position.
With uncertainty looming over Johnson's ability to secure the speakership on the first ballot, decisions on potential deals will likely be made once the vote-counting process begins. Rep. Thomas Massie has already announced his opposition to Johnson, with other members like Reps. Chip Roy and Victoria Spartz expressing reservations.
If Johnson fails to secure the necessary support on the first vote, the House could proceed to a second ballot immediately. The House cannot legislate until a speaker is selected, so the pressure is on to reach a decision swiftly.
Hardliners are making various demands, including commitments on government funding, assurances on spending cuts to offset new expenditures, changes to House rules, and increased influence in the legislative process.
The outcome of Friday's vote remains uncertain, with the possibility of multiple rounds of voting or recessing the chamber for private discussions if a clear winner does not emerge. The dynamics within the GOP caucus will play a crucial role in determining the next speaker of the House.
