Mike Johnson’s election today as U.S. House Speaker marks the culmination of a meteoric rise in the U.S House of Representatives, the result of his diligent but often low-key work advancing conservative constitutional principles and doing so in a respectful and inoffensive manner.
In a highly partisan, if not often toxic, U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Johnson first spearheaded the introduction of a “Commitment to Civility” resolution and he has remained committed to maintaining civil and courteous interaction among members of Congress, often in the face of heated policy and political disagreement. His demeanor and comportment certainly contributed to his gaining the support for Speaker of his fellow members of the often-rambunctious House Republican Conference.
He has now entered into an office the responsibilities and obligations of which are nothing less than monumental. And, while it is impossible to quantify the benefit his service as Speaker will provide Louisiana, it would be difficult to overstate the positive impact.
All of this is to say nothing of the fact that the Speaker post is second in the line of presidential succession. If the president dies or becomes incapacitated, the VP is first and then the Speaker of the House.
I am convinced that the same skills and ability that brought Rep. Johnson to this point—accompanied by his deep faith—will see him through. I offer him my congratulations and my prayers.
Shreveport attorney, Royal Alexander, worked in D.C. in the U.S. House of Representatives for nearly 8 years for two different Members of Congress from Louisiana. He has witnessed up close several Speaker races.