"Speaker Johnson's Challenging Start: GOP Infighting and Optimism"

Speaker Mike Johnson, who inherited a House Republican majority in disarray, is facing the same challenges as his predecessor, Rep. Kevin McCarthy, in trying to unite the hard-right factions and divisions within the party. This has disrupted the party's agenda, shelved priorities, and raised questions about leadership's ability to govern. House Republicans have struggled to pass legislation on their priorities, including slashing federal spending and investigating President Joe Biden. The party's divide on spending reflects the disconnect between Republican ideals and the reality of cutting programs close to home. With a potential government shutdown looming, Congress passed another short-term spending bill, further highlighting the challenges faced by Johnson and the GOP.