Speaker Mike Johnson’s (R-LA) leadership is under scrutiny from Republican colleagues, including Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-IN), who called for clear commitments to advancing President-elect Donald Trump’s agenda. Spartz’s comments follow Trump’s endorsement of Johnson for Speaker.
Spartz acknowledged Trump’s support but cautioned that Johnson must demonstrate “courage, vision, and a plan” to fulfill conservative priorities. She referenced Trump’s 2016 endorsement of former Speaker Paul Ryan as a cautionary example of missed opportunities for reform.
Interesting – former Schumer staffer who never had a real job & lobbying to funnel billions of $$ to healthcare monopolies is defending Johnson & calling me, an experienced CPA, a “fruit loop.”
Proud to be a “deplorable garbage fruit loop” who will NOT sell out our Republic!🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/Scyx4XNfRq
— Rep. Victoria Spartz (@RepSpartz) December 30, 2024
Johnson’s handling of a bipartisan spending deal to avoid a government shutdown has fueled dissatisfaction among some Republicans. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) announced he would vote against Johnson in the January 3 Speaker election, citing concerns over weak leadership.
I understand why President Trump is endorsing Speaker Johnson as he did Speaker Ryan, which is definitely important. However, we still need to get assurances that @SpeakerJohnson won’t sell us out to the swamp.
Donald Trump endorses Paul Ryan, John McCain https://t.co/Xa0tcTKpWk
— Rep. Victoria Spartz (@RepSpartz) December 30, 2024
Massie criticized Johnson for prioritizing short-term compromises over bold legislative action. “A weak legislative branch, beholden to the swamp, will not be able to achieve the mandate voters gave Trump and Congress,” Massie said.
🚨 BREAKING: Mike Johnson's bid for reelection is Speaker is on, and Congresswoman Victoria Spartz (R-IN), born in Ukraine, issues demands if he's to receive her vote.
– "Concrete plan to deliver on President Trump's agenda"
– "Non-swamp" officials getting the U.S. out of… pic.twitter.com/nFvQNCSeO9— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) December 30, 2024
Spartz emphasized the need for reforms in Congress, including fiscal accountability measures and public commitments to structural changes. She warned that Congress must take its constitutional responsibilities seriously to deliver on the promises made to voters.
Speaker Johnson acting 'almost disrespectful' during a 'really terrible situation': Rep. Victoria Spartz pic.twitter.com/1NpOUqJQ8L
— Mornings with Maria (@MorningsMaria) December 20, 2024
Trump’s endorsement of Johnson described him as a leader who embodies Republican values and is committed to the party’s agenda. However, divisions within the GOP signal ongoing challenges for Johnson’s leadership.
Rep. Victoria Spartz demands 'assurances' Speaker Johnson 'won't sell us out to the swamp' https://t.co/BIrRN3TTGW
— Fox News (@FoxNews) December 30, 2024
GOP Rep. Victoria Spartz Reveals Speaker Johnson Didn't Even Talk to Moderate Republicans Before Pushing CR
"Listen, we're a divided government, but we don't have to be ruled by Democrats. Speaker Johnson didn't even talk to moderate Republicans, not just to conservatives. He… pic.twitter.com/0nFv74mbGb
— Kyle Becker (@kylenabecker) December 18, 2024
Rep. SPARTZ tells @willcain she thinks "a lot of other people are interested" in being Speaker.
Spartz is not committed to supporting Speaker Johnson and alleges he's "not willing to have the deliberation" with members who have issues.
Johnson can only afford to lose one more… pic.twitter.com/mnXf9RTMf4
— Ryan Schmelz (@RyanSchmelzFOX) December 30, 2024