Behind closed doors, President Trump has been openly joking about how easy it is to steer House Speaker Mike Johnson.
“I’m the speaker and the president,” Trump reportedly quipped, signaling he thinks Johnson will fall in line. Those close to the situation say Johnson’s actions during the government shutdown have done nothing to challenge that perception. Some warn this could become the longest shutdown in U.S. history.
Johnson has become known as a yes-man for Trump. Critics say he has passed up chances to push back or assert independence, instead toeing the president’s line even when it draws fire from both parties.
Earlier this year, Johnson rallied Republicans behind Trump’s massive spending bills. He backed policies on energy, border security, abortion, and education that mirror the president’s America First agenda.
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As the shutdown drags on, Johnson has refused to call the House back until Democrats agree to Republican budget demands. He also blocked Congresswoman-elect Adelita Grijalva from being sworn in, claiming he lacked the authority. That vote could have forced action on Justice Department findings related to the Epstein case, a subject still under national scrutiny.
Recently, he has thrown his full support behind several of Trump’s most controversial moves. He defended the president’s decision to pardon former Congressman George Santos, saying on television that the president has the constitutional right to grant clemency and that everyone deserves a chance at redemption. Johnson has framed it as a matter of principle, repeatedly emphasizing that Trump’s actions are within his legal authority.
At the same time, Johnson has backed Trump’s demand for $230 million from the Justice Department, a lawsuit tied to previous federal investigations of the president. Johnson dismissed concerns about the unusual nature of the claim, telling reporters that Trump is simply seeking what he believes he is owed. He even suggested the president might donate some of the money to charity if it comes through.
Johnson has also praised Trump’s recent overhaul of the White House East Wing. He called the demolition of the old section “glorious” and spoke positively about the new ballroom that is set to replace it. On television, he described it as a “beautiful, magnificent space” and said it would be a lasting symbol of the administration’s vision.
Featured image via YouTube screengrab
