**Mike Johnson Maneuvers Cautiously Around Trump in Government Funding Debate**

Speaker Mike Johnson is tactfully steering clear of taking a definitive stance on government funding to avoid any potential rebuke from President-elect Trump that could undermine his position. With the House's GOP majority reduced to a razor-thin margin—possibly as few as two votes—Johnson is navigating a delicate political landscape.

The slim majority in the House implies that Johnson cannot afford any missteps as he prepares for the speaker race in January. His strategy appears to revolve around aligning himself with Trump's preferences or at least gaining the President-elect's tacit approval. This alignment is crucial as Johnson's negotiations will likely involve Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, who aims to secure government funding before the political dynamics shift over the next two years.

In a significant development, sources have confirmed that President-elect Trump plans to appoint Rep. Michael Waltz as his national security adviser. This move, which was initially reported by the Wall Street Journal, places one of the GOP’s most prominent China critics in a pivotal national security role within the Trump administration.

Moreover, the synergy between President-elect Trump and Elon Musk illustrates an emerging, potent fusion of governance and media influence. Both billionaires are collaborating closely to shape the new White House, the future Senate, and the next Cabinet, as well as formulating strategies for international relations.

Additionally, all contenders for the Senate majority leader have rapidly aligned themselves with Trump’s latest requirement: a willingness to utilize Senate procedures to expedite the approval of his key administration appointees. This alignment underscores Trump's intent to govern with decisive actions once he assumes office, with Senate leadership contenders showing their eagerness to be seen as his strong allies.