The Louisiana congressman rose from little-known lawmaker to leader of the House virtually overnight. Here’s a guide to Johnson’s background, views, and values.
On Oct. 25, after more than three weeks of paralysis in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.) was elected Speaker of the House by a unanimous vote of Republicans.
Mr. Johnson successfully united a conference that had been deeply divided since the ouster of the former speaker, Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), on Oct. 3.
Now third in line for the presidency, Mr. Johnson is a relative unknown to most Americans.
Here are 30 things to know about the newly elected 56th speaker.
1. He’s a Native of Louisiana
The representative of Louisiana’s fourth congressional district, Mr. Johnson was born on Jan. 30, 1972. He is 51 years old.
Born in Shreveport, Louisiana, part of the district he now represents, Mr. Johnson is the oldest son of Jeanne Johnson and firefighter James Patrick Johnson. He has three younger siblings.
2. His Education
Mr. Johnson received his high school diploma from Captain Shreve High School in Shreveport.
In 1995, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Louisiana State University. After finishing his undergraduate studies, he went to Louisiana State’s Paul M. Herbert Law Center, earning a Juris Doctor in 1998.
3. He’s a Devout Christian
Mr. Johnson is a devout Christian and a Baptist, and his religion has influenced his political and legal activity over the years.
He has worked closely with several Christian groups over the years, including Answers in Genesis, Louisiana Family Forum, the Alliance Defending Freedom, and Focus on the Family.
In his speech accepting the nomination, Mr. Johnson also referenced his Christian faith.
“I don’t believe there are any coincidences in a matter like this,” he said. “I believe that … the Bible is very clear that God is the one who raises up those in authority. … And I believe God has ordained for each of us to be brought here for this specific moment and this time.”
4. His Family
Mr. Johnson and his wife, Kelly, have four children: Hannah, Abigail, Jack, and Will.
The Johnsons also have a dog, which the lawmaker has been seen walking on Capitol Hill.
By Joseph Lord and Jackson Richman
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