Trump supports Johnson to secure GOP legislative victories

Speaker Mike Johnson has faced challenges in Congress since taking office in fall 2023, often relying on former President Donald Trump for support. Trump's influence has helped Johnson navigate party divisions and secure key legislation, including recent spending bills. Fiscal conservatives, previously resistant to short-term spending measures, voted in favor of a continuing resolution after Trump intervened. His personal outreach to lawmakers has proven more effective than Johnson's leadership in rallying support within the party. Critics, including some Democrats, argue that Trump's dominance undermines Johnson's role as Speaker. They claim that the GOP's reliance on Trump hampers bipartisan negotiations and reflects a lack of independent leadership in Congress.