House Republican Says Mike Johnson Functions Like a Staff Member' For Trump, Who Wants Him Weak'

"From the start, Johnson's unwavering loyaltysome would say obsequiousnessto Trump has defined his speakership. He's developed a reputation for never saying what he actually thinks about anything, lest he cross the president. In recent months, Johnson has been regularly asked by congressional reporters to weigh in on President Donald Trump's bombastic statements or shock moves like renaming the Kennedy Center after himself and time and time again refuses to comment."

"I don't do ongoing commentary about everything that's said by everybody in government every day, Johnson recently said when asked about Trump's shocking attack on legendary director Rob Reiner after he was murdered. That's the president of the United States, CNN's Manu Raju added, pushing for an answer. We are trying to bring down healthcare costs for the American people. They're in very important votes, very important issues, and that's what we're focused on, replied Johnson."

Mike Johnson's unwavering loyalty to Donald Trump has shaped his tenure leading the House, creating a reputation for avoiding candid personal views to avoid crossing the president. Reporters repeatedly ask him to respond to Trump's bombastic statements and provocative actions, and Johnson often declines to comment, saying he does not offer ongoing commentary and emphasizing legislative priorities such as lowering healthcare costs. Increasingly, Republicans privately criticize that deference, arguing Trump prefers a weak, compliant leader. Some colleagues have described Johnson as functioning like a staff member or puppet whose continued hold on the position depends on Trump's support.

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