House Republicans have chosen Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) as Speaker of the House, a decision that has been hailed by Democrats as a gift. Johnson’s anti-abortion stance, which goes against the majority opinion in the country, is seen as a major election driver. His history of voting against reproductive freedom and his “A+” rating from Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America make him a prime target for Democrats in competitive 2024 congressional races.
Johnson was also a leader among House election deniers, a group of Republicans who cost the GOP numerous competitive elections in 2022. His support for Trump’s “Big Lie” that the 2020 election was stolen and his involvement in amplifying debunked conspiracy theories about Dominion Voting Systems machines switching votes from Trump to Biden have damaged his credibility. His role in supporting Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s legally baseless claim that the Supreme Court should overturn elections in several states further raises questions about his judgment.
Johnson’s speakership will also have implications for the 18 Republican representatives in Biden-won districts. Democrats are already looking to use Johnson’s association with MAGA extremism against these representatives in the 2024 election. Johnson’s lack of experience in national fundraising compared to House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy is also a concern. Fundraising is a relationship business that takes time to build, and Johnson’s inexperience may hinder his ability to raise funds for his colleagues.
Furthermore, Johnson’s status as a rookie leader increases the likelihood of mistakes on key issues. He may struggle to avoid a government shutdown, something that recent polling suggests Americans would blame Republicans for. Johnson’s proximity to Trump, who endorsed him as Speaker, raises concerns about the extent to which Trump will influence House Republicans and potentially harm Biden’s agenda.
While there may be short-term damage to the GOP’s prospects, Dan Pfeiffer argues that Johnson’s selection as Speaker highlights everything voters hate about the party. Johnson’s positions on abortion, election denial, and association with Trumpism make him a target for independent voters, who play a crucial role in determining election outcomes. In the long run, Johnson’s selection may have negative consequences for the GOP’s 2024 prospects.
Overall, Johnson’s selection as Speaker of the House presents significant challenges for Republicans. His anti-abortion stance, involvement in election denial, lack of national fundraising experience, and potential for mistakes as a rookie leader all pose risks to the party’s electoral prospects. Democrats are already strategizing how to use Johnson’s association with MAGA extremism against vulnerable Republicans in competitive districts. The long-term impact of Johnson’s speakership remains to be seen, but it is clear that his selection has raised concerns within the party.
Original Story at verdict.justia.com – 2023-10-26 18:50:13
