Web Desk
Republican leader Mike Johnson has been successfully re-elected as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, securing the support of newly-elected President Donald Trump.
According to foreign media reports, on Friday, the first day of the new Congress, Mike Johnson was elected Speaker after a closely contested vote. He received 218 votes, while Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries garnered 215 votes.
Reports indicate that initially, three Republican members—Ralph Norman (South Carolina), Keith Self (Texas), and Thomas Massie (Kentucky)—opposed Johnson’s candidacy. However, after brief meetings with Johnson, Norman and Self surprisingly changed their votes in favor of him.
On the other hand, all Democratic members cast their votes in favor of minority leader Hakeem Jeffries.
With this election, Republicans have officially gained control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate. Members of Congress have also taken their oaths of office.
A session of Congress will reconvene on Monday, during which the confirmation of newly-elected President Donald Trump’s electoral victory is expected.
However, due to a narrow majority in the House, Republicans may face significant challenges in passing legislation. Any internal party divisions could lead to failed votes, while the Democrats’ cooperation will likely be needed for most legislative actions in the Senate.
