Tapper: GOP Defectors Flex Power with Speaker Johnson — 'We Can Take You Down'
During CNN’s special coverage of the House Speaker vote, anchor Jake Tapper noted Friday that a group of Republican lawmakers sent a pointed message to newly elected Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) by initially withholding their support.
“All right, so there we go,” Tapper said. “Congressman Mike Johnson is now officially Speaker Mike Johnson. There were two no-votes and two votes cast for other Republicans — Ralph Norman backed Tom Emmer, while Keith Self voted for Byron Donalds. Both Norman and Self have since changed their votes.”
Tapper framed the initial defections as a calculated display of power. “This was a muscle flexing by a minority within the Republican Party,” he explained. “Nine members demonstrated to Speaker Johnson that, under the new House rules, they have the ability to bring him down or make his job very difficult. The message was clear: pay attention to us.”
He emphasized the significance of the moment, adding, “These nine individuals made it clear to Speaker Johnson — we can take you down.”
Political analyst Kristen Soltis Anderson echoed Tapper’s observation. “They sent a message, and the math only gets harder from here,” she remarked, pointing out that some of those involved in the vote might soon exit the House.
Tapper concluded by naming two of the members Anderson referenced, noting, “Stefanik and Walz.”
Soltis Anderson said, “Because they have been nominated to important positions by Donald Trump. So, this is just the beginning. If this is supposed to be the easiest vote, it does not get easier from here.”