WASHINGTON — Less than a year before the critical 2026 midterm elections, Speaker Mike Johnson is losing control of the House floor.
Speaker Mike Johnson faces challenges as GOP members, led by Rep. Thomas Massie, successfully partnered with Democrats to release Jeffrey Epstein’s files, undermining his authority. Other Republicans are now exploring discharge petitions to bypass Johnson, including measures to ban stock trading by Congress members and impose sanctions on Russia. Johnson’s leadership struggles are exacerbated by a slim GOP majority and recent electoral setbacks, leading to heightened anxiety among lawmakers. Despite the turmoil, Johnson maintains that the party is advancing its agenda amid the internal discord.




