Sources close to Donald Trump indicate that the president-elect is increasingly frustrated with House Speaker Mike Johnson, whose handling of a recent government funding deal has raised serious concerns within Trump’s circle. Trump’s dissatisfaction stems primarily from Johnson’s failure to secure a debt ceiling hike, a key priority for the incoming administration.
The spending deal, cobbled together last Friday to avoid a government shutdown, has been described as chaotic and unorganized. Trump reportedly felt blindsided by Johnson’s initial agreement with Democrats and questioned the Speaker’s ability to manage the Republican Party’s slim majority in the upcoming session.
Insiders claim Trump’s displeasure with Johnson has reached a tipping point, though he remains undecided on whether to push for a leadership change immediately or let events unfold. One Trump ally remarked that Johnson’s lack of strength and inability to project the “fighter” persona Trump values have diminished his standing. Another insider questioned whether Johnson can survive as Speaker, given his recent missteps.
The turning point came when Johnson’s initial deal, which had been communicated to members of Trump’s team but not to Trump directly, failed to pass. Trump had endorsed the agreement based on assurances that it included a debt ceiling provision, only to see it collapse with significant Republican opposition. This miscalculation left Trump feeling embarrassed and undermined.
Following the failure of the first deal, Trump avoided directly involving himself in subsequent negotiations. While a second bill eventually passed, it did not include the debt ceiling provision Trump had demanded, deepening his frustration with Johnson’s leadership.
Despite his concerns, Trump is reportedly cautious about calling for Johnson’s removal. Replacing a Speaker, especially with such a narrow majority, could trigger a bitter and disruptive fight within the Republican Party, complicating Trump’s legislative agenda. Instead, Trump appears to be taking a wait-and-see approach, observing whether Johnson can recover and prove his worth.
For now, Johnson’s position as Speaker remains precarious. Trump’s allies have made it clear that the president-elect sees him as weak and indecisive, which could spell trouble if Johnson fails to deliver strong leadership in the months ahead.
