Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La., seeks reelection as the speaker of the House but faces strong opposition from a few members of the Republicans who are very influential.
This opposition from these influential Republican members of the House has turned the House election into a close contest.
Johnson currently banks on the support of members of the Republican Party, who have a 219-215 majority in the House. While he is not sure of the support of the Democrats, he cannot afford a divided Republican going into the election.
Two Republicans had already voted against Mike Johnson, as at 1:20 p.m. EST, Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., gave his support to Rep. Tom Emmer, R-Minn., while Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., cast his vote for Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio.
Five other Republicans, including Reps. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz.; Michael Cloud, R-Texas; Andrew Clyde, R-Ga.; Andy Harris, R-Md.; and Chip Roy, R-Texas, did not cast votes on the first ballot.
Donald Trump, the U.S. president-elect, had earlier given his endorsement to Mike Johnson in the week, claiming that he has a better chance to win the election.
