Mike Johnson, Trump Convening at Mar-a-Lago
The Facts
In a notable meeting, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson and Donald Trump are convening at Mar-a-Lago on Friday — their first public meeting since Johnson ascended to the speakership in November.
The main topics of discussion include "election integrity," reportedly drawing attention to Trump's characterization of state proposals and lawsuits that allegedly would allow non-citizens to vote despite existing federal bans.
The Spin
Republican narrative
On top of not being the solution, ousting Mike Johnson from speakership would effectively be counterproductive. After the chaos that followed Rep. Matt Gaetz's motion to remove Kevin McCarthy, the GOP cannot afford more turmoil ahead of an already uphill battle in the 2024 election.
Conservative narrative
Mike Johnson has already abandoned his constituents to work alongside the Democrats, so what's the point in worrying about how his removal could impact future House leadership? As it stands, it would be better — or at least less harmful — for Republicans to vote him out and prevent further bad legislation.
