Mike Johnson steps down as GOP leader after House flips to Democrats

House Speaker Mike Johnson will not seek reelection as the House Republican leader after Democrats reclaimed the chamber majority, according to the Independent ^[1]. The Louisiana Republican made the decision clear to his staff in a phone call Wednesday morning, NBC News reported ^[2].

Johnson’s announcement follows significant losses for his party in Tuesday’s midterm races. He served two terms as speaker, having originally been elected after Republicans ousted Kevin McCarthy from the top job in 2023, NBC News noted ^[2]. His future plans remain unknown as he steps aside.

According to CBS News ^[3], Johnson recently stated he intended to remain as the party's leader even if Republicans lost control of the House. However, sources familiar with the matter confirmed he will not run for minority leader in the new Congress. The decision comes as CBS News projected Democrats will take control of the House in January.

The departure leaves the position of House minority leader open for the upcoming term. House Republicans plan to conduct an internal vote to choose their next leader next week, on Nov. 10, NBC News reported ^[2]. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise and House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan are viewed as probable contenders for the role, according to CBS News ^[3].

The leadership transition marks a significant shift in House dynamics following the midterm results. While Johnson’s exit was confirmed by multiple outlets, the full extent of the internal party reaction remains to be seen as the November 10 vote approaches.