Trump congratulates Johnson, takes credit for Speakership win
Former President Donald Trump welcomed incoming House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) on October 25, 2023. Trump said that he “put out the word” and helped Johnson become Speaker.
Eight Republicans joined Democrats to remove former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) from office, giving Johnson the win. McCarthy has been criticized by Trump since the 2020 election, and he allegedly influenced Johnson’s Speaker bid.
Trump called Johnson a “tremendous leader” and “tremendous man” who would be a fantastic House Speaker. He also congratulated himself and Johnson’s supporters for making Johnson a Speaker.
READ MORE: TRUMP COULD BE U.S. PRESIDENT AGAIN: HERE’S WHAT HE PLANS TO DO IF HE WINS
Trump remained influential in the Republican Party after Johnson’s win. It also indicates that Trump is eager to claim credit for his allies’ triumphs, even if he had a small part.
Analysis
Trump’s congratulations and claim of credit for Johnson’s victory are part of a bigger pattern of claiming credit for others’ triumphs. Trump has claimed credit for the stock market’s increase and ISIS’s defeat.
Trump supporters view his credit claims as proof of his power and decisiveness. Critics say they show his egotism and demand for recognition.
Trump’s congratulations to Johnson and claim of credit for his win may elicit diverse emotions. His admirers will cheer, while his enemies will call him narcissistic and self-promotional.
READ MORE: Who will win if there is a rematch between Biden and Trump? New poll shows a clear winner
What Trump’s prolonged influence in the GOP will do to its future is unknown. Trump is a significant influence in the party, and his actions continue to affect the Republican landscape.
