House Speaker Mike Johnson and his supporters are feeling increasingly confident as Friday progresses, with only Rep. Thomas Massie openly opposing Johnson's bid for the speakership. According to sources within the GOP, no other Republican lawmakers have definitively stated their opposition to Johnson.
Despite the potential for drama due to the narrow margins in securing the speakership, Republican leadership is growing more assured that Johnson will secure the gavel by the end of the day.
Even Rep. Andy Ogles, who had previously withheld support for Johnson, now predicts that Johnson will retain his position as speaker. Ogles expressed optimism, suggesting that the only uncertainty is the number of ballots required for Johnson's victory.
Ogles, a member of the House Freedom Caucus, is part of a group seeking commitments from Johnson for the 119th Congress. He emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility, particularly in relation to emergency spending like natural disaster relief or international aid.
Regarding his priorities, Ogles highlighted the need for any supplemental funding to be offset by corresponding budget cuts. He stressed the importance of ensuring that Congress pays for emergency expenditures rather than adding to the national debt.
