WASHINGTON, D.C. – In the first round of voting for the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives on January 3, 2025, incumbent Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) failed to secure the majority required to retain his position.
According to the Office of the Clerk of the House, Johnson received 216 votes, falling short of the 218 needed to clinch the role given the House’s narrow Republican majority. Several Republican members cast votes for alternative candidates, leaving the chamber without a clear leader as the 119th Congress convenes.
Ongoing Voting Process
With no Speaker elected, the House will continue additional rounds of voting until a candidate secures the necessary majority. The failure to elect a Speaker delays critical legislative business, including the swearing-in of members and the adoption of House rules.
A History of Challenges
This marks another instance of prolonged Speaker elections in recent history, reflecting ongoing divisions within the Republican Party. The Clerk of the House will oversee subsequent ballots as members deliberate on their choices.
What’s Next?
As the voting process unfolds, the focus remains on whether Johnson can consolidate support among his caucus or if an alternative candidate will emerge to secure the gavel.
For real-time updates on the Speaker election and its implications, visit clerk.house.gov or check back with BIZ Magazine.