Rep. Thomas Massie Opposes Mike Johnson, Warns Of ‘Next Paul Ryan’ Scenario
Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) has declared he will not support Speaker Mike Johnson in the upcoming House speaker election, comparing Johnson to former Speaker Paul Ryan. Massie expressed concerns about Johnson’s leadership and his ability to advance conservative priorities effectively.
Massie took to X on Monday to announce his decision, recalling his lone opposition to Paul Ryan’s speakership in 2017. Massie criticized Ryan’s tenure for failing to deliver on key promises like repealing Obamacare and funding a border wall, which ultimately led to Republicans losing their House majority in 2018.
“Ryan went on to offer a fake repeal of Obamacare, increased spending, backed the deep state, and didn’t fund a wall,” Massie wrote. “Two years later we lost the majority and Democrats made a living hell for Trump.”
Massie’s opposition to Johnson comes amid criticism of the speaker’s handling of recent legislation. Johnson faced backlash from GOP colleagues for negotiating a spending bill with Democrats that passed with more support from Democrats than Republicans. Thirty-four GOP members voted against the measure, highlighting divisions within the party.
The stakes for Friday’s speaker vote are high. With 219 Republicans and 215 Democrats in the House, Johnson can only afford to lose one GOP vote to retain his position. If no speaker is elected, the incoming Congress cannot be sworn in, delaying critical functions like certifying the Electoral College results on January 6.
Former President Trump endorsed Johnson on Monday, calling him a “good, hardworking, religious man” and urging Republicans to unite behind his leadership. Trump’s endorsement comes as some GOP members, including Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) and Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD), remain non-committal about supporting Johnson.
If the speaker vote results in a deadlock, House business will be paralyzed, leaving Congress unable to swear in new members or certify the election results, a process necessary for President-elect Trump’s inauguration on January 20.
