### Trump Backs Speaker Mike Johnson, Aims to Bolster GOP Unity

In a private gathering with House Republicans, President-elect Trump voiced strong support for Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), praising him as a "tremendous guy." Trump's endorsement, delivered just ahead of GOP leadership elections, seems poised to strengthen Johnson's position and diminish the likelihood of any internal opposition, both in the immediate conference vote and the upcoming full floor vote in January.

House Speaker Mike Johnson has also been addressing concerns within the GOP ranks regarding the impact of Trump’s cabinet appointments on the narrow Republican majority. Some members of the GOP are worried that the president-elect’s selections could thin their ranks even further, complicating legislative efforts.

While conservative hardliners had toyed with the idea of fielding a challenger against Johnson, no candidate emerged from their meeting on Tuesday night. Consequently, Johnson is currently running unopposed. However, he will need to maintain robust support to carry the floor vote in January and continue his role as speaker.

Johnson is optimistic about his job security, particularly with a "fully supportive" Trump backing him. This support could be crucial in quashing any potential challengers if the GOP retains control of the House. Reflecting on the recent election results, Johnson expressed his confidence that House Republicans would sustain their majority and affirm his position as speaker.

Aware of the tenuous balance of power, Johnson is strategically avoiding stances on government funding that could draw ire from Trump and potentially destabilize his fragile hold on the House. Given the slim majority—potentially as narrow as a two-vote margin—Johnson's alignment with Trump's agenda could be pivotal in maintaining GOP unity and legislative effectiveness.