Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) has voiced strong opposition and declared he will not support Speaker Mike Johnson in the reelection, warning that his leadership could cost Republicans their majority. Massie expressed concerns about Johnson’s leadership and compared him to former Speaker Paul Ryan, whose tenure saw Republicans lose the House after failing to deliver on key promises.

Massie, in a post on X, declared he would vote for “someone other than Mike Johnson” in the speaker election. He criticized Johnson for negotiating a spending bill with Democrats that passed with more Democratic support than Republican, frustrating members of his party.

https://x.com/RepThomasMassie/status/1873776475264213174

https://x.com/AnthonySabatini/status/1874157226925187335

Massie’s reference to Ryan highlighted parallels between the two speakers. During Ryan’s term, Republicans faced backlash over unfulfilled promises, including the repeal of Obamacare and increased spending, culminating in a 40-seat loss in 2018. Massie warned Johnson’s leadership could follow a similar path, endangering the GOP majority.

https://x.com/RepThomasMassie/status/1784542047875059825

https://x.com/RepThomasMassie/status/1787548110572413116

The stakes are particularly high, as Johnson needs near-unanimous support from Republicans to retain his position. With the House divided at 219 Republicans and 215 Democrats, Johnson can only afford to lose one GOP vote. If he fails to secure the gavel, House business, including swearing in members and certifying the Electoral College results, will be delayed.

https://x.com/RepThomasMassie/status/1873851482283647308

https://x.com/HANKonX/status/1874164147249639636

Trump’s endorsement of Johnson earlier this week aimed to rally Republicans behind his leadership. Trump endorsed Johnson and described him as a “good, hardworking, religious man” and urged the GOP to avoid jeopardizing their legislative agenda with internal divisions.

https://x.com/thechadwickpaul/status/1873756492840784147

https://x.com/Chicago1Ray/status/1873089929456316673

Johnson’s leadership has also drawn criticism from other Republicans, including Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD) and Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA), who have expressed concerns over his ability to lead the party effectively.

https://x.com/RepThomasMassie/status/1816141509411963031

https://x.com/WLWT/status/1874151546558071225