In a historic victory, Republican Rep. Mike Johnson of Louisiana has been elected as the new House speaker, replacing Rep. Kevin McCarthy. The ouster of McCarthy earlier this month was seen as a setback for the House GOP as it aims to maintain its fragile majority in the upcoming 2024 elections. Johnson’s election as successor to McCarthy has ended three weeks of intense infighting in the House Republican Conference. However, concerns have been raised about Johnson’s ability to raise the necessary funds for the GOP to retain control of the House.
Johnson, a four-term lawmaker from Louisiana, has never held a senior leadership position or chaired a committee. His average fundraising of about $1.3 million per cycle, along with additional funds from a leadership PAC, pales in comparison to what he will now be expected to raise for the party. Brian Walsh, a veteran Republican consultant, acknowledges Johnson’s ability to unite a divided caucus, which could potentially aid his fundraising efforts.
The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) Chairman, Rep. Richard Hudson, expressed confidence in Johnson’s dedication to the party and his commitment to defending the Republican majority. Hudson believes that with Republicans united behind Speaker Johnson, they can grow their majority and improve the lives of American families. However, some Republican operatives believe that Johnson may face a learning curve in his new role.
McCarthy, as the previous minority leader, played a crucial role in defying expectations in the 2020 elections and significantly reducing the Democrats’ House majority. He also excelled in fundraising, contributing to the Republicans’ victory in regaining the House majority. The three lawmakers nominated to succeed McCarthy, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan, and House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, all possessed strong fundraising abilities. However, they each faced opposition from fellow Republicans or former President Donald Trump, forcing them to withdraw from the race.
The House GOP currently holds a fragile 221-212 majority, with seats in a red district and a blue district vacant. Democrats need a net gain of just five seats to regain control of the chamber in the upcoming elections. Fundraising will be crucial for the GOP to retain the majority, but it will face competition from presidential campaign dollars and Senate funds.
The support of McCarthy, who has pledged to assist Johnson in fundraising efforts, could be a significant advantage. Johnson will face numerous challenges on both the legislative and political fronts, and cooperation among senior members will be essential. Democrats wasted no time in criticizing Johnson, highlighting his support for former President Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election and his opposition to legalized abortion. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee characterized Johnson as a “MAGA acolyte” who will push an extreme agenda.
As the 2024 campaign trail heats up, Johnson’s ability to navigate fundraising challenges and unite the Republican Party will be closely watched. The House of Representatives remains up for grabs, and financial resources will play a significant role in determining the outcome. Johnson’s success in this role will rely on a team effort and the support of key figures from the previous leadership.
