Mike Johnson steps down as leader of House Republicans after losing the majority to Democrats

Mike Johnson announced on Wednesday that he would not run for leadership of the Republican caucus in the House of Representatives, one day after the Republican Party lost its majority to the Democrats in the midterm elections. The decision opens the race to succeed him at a time of change in the House leadership.

According to the Associated Press and CNN, cited by Le Monde, Johnson informed his staff of his decision on Wednesday morning. He served as Speaker of the House of Representatives for two terms after Republicans ousted Kevin McCarthy in 2023.

Johnson’s departure also leaves vacant the position of leader of the House Republican minority. Republicans are scheduled to hold an internal election on November 10 to select their candidate for the position.

Steve Scalise, the current Republican majority leader, intends to announce his candidacy. Jim Jordan, a close ally of Donald Trump and chairman of the Judiciary Committee, is also expected to enter the race. Other Republicans may join the contest.