Part 5/7:
Nonetheless, questions loomed over how Johnson would govern without resorting to the backroom deals that had marred Kevin McCarthy’s brief term as Speaker. Johnson’s commitment to avoiding such concessions would challenge his ability to galvanize the necessary support going forward.
As the contentious voting continued, Johnson was seen engaging with dissenting representatives, including Keith Self and Ralph Norman, in efforts to sway their votes. The Republican leadership was under substantial pressure, torn between the far-right factions seeking a platform for their views and the moderates advocating for a more unified approach.