House leaders move quickly to consolidate power in show of confidence for Republican majority
The top three House Republican leaders are gearing up to defend their roles in the new Congress, displaying confidence in the GOP’s ability to secure full control of the federal government. Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., have reached out to their fellow House GOP lawmakers seeking support to retain their positions, while House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, R-Minn., has also made a similar appeal.
The current House leadership lineup is anticipated to face minimal challenges if the Republicans maintain control of the chamber. The trio of leaders have all pledged to work alongside President-elect Trump to advance conservative policies, with a focus on securing borders, prioritizing American interests, promoting investment, reducing regulations, and restoring fiscal responsibility in Washington, among other initiatives.
In his letter to colleagues, Speaker Johnson criticized the Biden administration’s response to the ongoing crisis in Haiti, highlighting a perceived lack of leadership. Johnson emphasized the importance of working together to address pressing issues and called on his fellow Republicans for support in continuing to lead the Conference as Speaker.
House Majority Leader Scalise outlined a plan to pass significant conservative reforms using the legislative process of reconciliation, which allows for fast-tracking legislation on key issues like taxes, the debt limit, and federal spending. Scalise expressed a desire for Republicans to be bold and creative in advancing conservative policies through reconciliation, signaling a willingness to push the boundaries to achieve their goals.
Meanwhile, House Majority Whip Emmer emphasized his role in uniting Republicans to support legislation, acknowledging the challenges faced during the previous Congress. Emmer highlighted the importance of finding common ground and working together to secure the necessary votes for legislative success.
In addition to the top three leaders, Rep. Kevin Hern, R-Okla., has announced his bid for House Republican Policy Committee chair, the No. 5 position in the House GOP leadership hierarchy. Hern highlighted his positive relationship with Vice President-elect JD Vance and his commitment to working with colleagues to advance conservative policies.
House GOP Conference Chair Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., is also running for her current position and is reportedly eyeing a role in the Trump administration as ambassador to the United Nations. The upcoming House Republican leadership elections are scheduled for next week, signaling the swift consolidation of power within the party.
While the balance of power in the House remains uncertain, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., has acknowledged the GOP’s optimism about their chances. The Fox News Decision Desk has slightly favored the GOP in a recent update, reflecting the party’s confidence in securing control of the federal government.
Elizabeth Elkind, a politics reporter for Fox News Digital, is leading coverage of the House of Representatives. With previous bylines at Daily Mail and CBS News, Elkind brings a wealth of experience to her reporting on Capitol Hill. Follow her on Twitter at @liz_elkind and send tips to elizabeth.elkind@fox.com.
