Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana attended former President Trump’s criminal trial in Manhattan, showing his support for Trump. Johnson contacted Trump directly to let him know he would be there and rode with him in his motorcade to the courthouse. The two have a close relationship, with Johnson keeping Trump informed about major moves in the House of Representatives. According to allies, the relationship is positive for both the House and the GOP, with the two men working towards a common goal despite their different personalities.
Trump has helped Johnson out of legislative jams before, showing public support for the speaker against GOP rebels and endorsing Johnson’s plan on foreign aid. Johnson, in turn, has defended Trump amid his criminal trials and even suggested defunding the Special Counsel. Behind closed doors, Johnson has touted Trump’s poll numbers in critical swing states, showing his continued support for the former president. Despite not being the first House GOP leader to endorse Trump’s re-election, Johnson’s decision was swift and appears to have been his own, highlighting their strong relationship.
Some lawmakers characterize the relationship between Trump and Johnson as a productive one that started off slowly. However, a recent interview with Johnson in The Atlantic revealed a more personal side to their bond, with Trump reaching out to Johnson after a personal family emergency. The two also worked closely together when Johnson was part of Trump’s impeachment defense team in 2020, underscoring their shared history. Other Republicans close to both men emphasize the mutual respect and collaboration between Trump and Johnson, highlighting the benefits of their relationship to both sides.
Overall, Trump’s allies view his relationship with Johnson as healthy and beneficial. While they may not always agree on every issue, they respect each other and are able to come together to discuss and strategize on important matters. Trump’s influence and support have been instrumental in helping Johnson navigate the challenges of leadership, while Johnson’s unwavering backing of Trump demonstrates their loyalty to one another. The relationship between the two men is seen as crucial for advancing the America First agenda and achieving electoral success for the GOP in future elections.
