In an interview on NBC News's "Meet the Press," Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) firmly dismissed suggestions of former President Trump's sway over the House's decisions regarding a potential border deal. When asked whether Trump was "calling the shots," Johnson responded, "Of course not. He's not calling the shots. I am calling the shots for the House."

Johnson emphasized that it is the responsibility of the House to determine the course of action and that he has been advocating for effective measures to address border issues even before Trump's time in office. He reiterated his stance that any border deal must mirror H.R. 2, a hard-line conservative proposition that faces slim chances of gaining presidential approval.

As bipartisan negotiations in the Senate edge closer towards a potential border deal, some Republicans have argued that President Biden already possesses the executive authority to act, despite previous limited success with this approach during Trump's tenure. Notably, Trump has been publicly and privately discouraging Republicans from accepting a border deal, suggesting it could have political implications for the 2024 presidential election.

However, Johnson remained steadfast in his position, asserting that Trump's influence did not impact his decision-making process. He emphasized the need to address the root of the problem and curb the flow of migrants, stating that the president could take executive action even as Congress engages in negotiation and debate.

"I don't care if they call the legislation H.R. 2 or not. What we're saying is you have to stem the flow," Johnson stated, highlighting the president's existing executive authority. His remarks implied that if necessary steps are not taken, the president could use his power to address the issue.

As the border debate continues, Johnson's assertion of his independent decision-making and call for executive action against the backdrop of Trump's purported influence adds yet another layer of complexity to the ongoing discussions.

It remains to be seen how this disagreement between Speaker Johnson and former President Trump will impact the final outcome of the border deal negotiations and whether President Biden will indeed utilize his executive authority to address the situation.