The new Speaker of the House is Representative Mike Johnson from Louisiana. Despite his seemingly generic name and appearance, Johnson is an influential figure within the Republican Party. He garnered votes from all 220 Republicans, making him a unifying figure across various factions of the party.
However, Johnson’s rise to power has raised some eyebrows. He is not only an election denier, but he also played a significant role in the efforts to overturn the 2020 election. In an editorial, Johnson even referred to homosexuality as an inherently unnatural and dangerous lifestyle, which he believes could destroy the entire democratic system.
Despite his controversial views, Johnson’s apparent lack of opposition within his party has allowed him to become second in line to the presidency. Many are left wondering, “Who is Mike Johnson, and what are his plans for the future?”
Following Johnson’s election, House Republicans held a self-congratulatory festival on the steps of the Capitol. This celebration, usually reserved for major achievements like the passage of Medicare or ending a war, highlighted the significance of Johnson’s selection.
In his speech, Johnson acknowledged the messy process of democracy but urged the American people to move forward and forget the last three weeks. His message seemed ironic, given his previous attempts to undermine the electoral process. Nevertheless, Johnson expressed confidence in the newly united GOP, claiming that they would work like a well-oiled machine to address the world’s problems. Colbert humorously commented that the world is on fire, and they are covered in oil, making their flammable state all the more dangerous.
In other news related to the Trump administration, it was revealed that Mark Meadows, Trump’s former Chief of Staff, may be flipping on the ex-president. Reports suggest that Meadows has been granted immunity in the January 6th case and has testified against Trump, stating that the allegations of significant voter fraud after the 2020 election were baseless. Trump, true to form, responded by threatening Meadows to keep his mouth shut.
The episode closed with Colbert making light of the situation, reminding viewers that Trump’s reaction to Meadows’ potential betrayal is typical of his personality. Trump’s intimidating remarks, disguised as uncertainty about Meadows’ loyalty, only further illustrate his divisive and unpredictable nature.
As the show wrapped up, Colbert teased the upcoming guests, “talking heads” and comedian May, leaving viewers with a curiosity about the lively discussions that would ensue.
