House Speaker Turmoil: Mike Johnson Emerges as GOP's Fourth Nominee

House Republicans have elected Rep. Mike Johnson (La.) as their fourth speaker-designate, following the withdrawal of Majority Whip Tom Emmer (Minn.) after former President Donald Trump criticized his candidacy. Johnson, a close ally of Trump, will face the challenge of securing the necessary 217 Republican votes on the House floor to become the speaker. The lack of a speaker has paralyzed the House, preventing legislative business from taking place. Republicans are considering a resolution to temporarily empower Speaker Pro Tempore Patrick T. McHenry (R-N.C.) to oversee the House chamber and pass legislation until Jan. 3, 2024.