House Speaker Mike Johnson made headlines on Tuesday by officially endorsing Donald Trump for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. Speaking on CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” Johnson expressed full support for Trump while defending the former president’s efforts to challenge the 2020 election results. The Louisiana Republican, known as one of Trump’s “closest allies” in Congress, emphasized the need to make President Joe Biden a one-term president.
Johnson’s Early Endorsement
In a rare move, Johnson publicly endorsed Trump early in the 2024 race, breaking from the convention of waiting until closer to the primaries. While Johnson had previously supported Trump in 2020, his official endorsement comes amid Trump’s dominance in the Republican field. Trump had earlier given a “strong suggestion” to support Johnson in his bid for the role of House Speaker.
Backing Trump’s Election Challenges
Johnson reiterated his backing of Trump’s efforts to contest the 2020 election results, emphasizing that it should be about policies and principles rather than personalities. He stood firm on Trump’s belief that the election was marred by fraud, stating, “I take him at his word.” Despite Trump’s well-documented false claims, Johnson maintained that the former president’s convictions about being cheated were “deep in his heart.”
Brushing off Legal Issues
Addressing Trump’s pending criminal cases, Johnson dismissed them as politically motivated “lawfare.” He downplayed concerns about Trump’s legal challenges, emphasizing Trump’s commitment to the rule of law and highlighting his actions, including Supreme Court nominations.
Early Move Raises Eyebrows
Johnson’s early endorsement of Trump in the 2024 presidential race has raised eyebrows, given the usual timing of such endorsements. As Trump continues to dominate the Republican field, Johnson’s backing signals a strong alliance and commitment to Trump’s political agenda.
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