Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., initially voted for Jim Jordan in the first round of voting for the new House speaker on Friday. However, after multiple phone calls from President-elect Trump, Norman changed his vote to Mike Johnson. Norman was one of three Republican representatives who initially hesitated to support Johnson in his bid for the speakership.
According to Norman, Trump reached out to him on the phone several times during the day. The first time Trump called, he was on the golf course. Norman recalled that Trump mentioned, “Look, I’m in the middle of a golf game.” Despite being on the links, Trump continued to discuss the speaker’s race and emphasized the importance of supporting Mike Johnson.
In their conversation, Trump reminded Norman that he had previously voted for Nikki Haley, a Republican figure associated with Trump’s circle. Norman agreed and responded, “Yes, sir, I did. We’re with you now. We will be with Mike Johnson.” This phone call marked a turning point in Norman’s decision, showing how Trump’s persuasive tactics worked, even during his golf game.
Trump, who is known for owning several golf courses and once held a USGA handicap as low as 2.5, claims to have recorded eight holes-in-one over the years. Despite his golf game, Trump took the time to personally call key Republican figures who had yet to support Johnson.
In addition to Norman, Trump also reached out to Rep. Keith Self, R-Texas, in an effort to sway his vote. Self confirmed to reporters that he had spoken with Trump multiple times on Friday, and their conversations were reportedly lively. Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., helped facilitate the calls between Trump, Self, and Norman after they voted against Johnson.
At first, it seemed as though Johnson might lose the vote due to some Republicans voting for other candidates. Norman, Self, and Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., all initially chose someone else for the role, making it look like the speakership was slipping out of Johnson’s reach. However, House leaders did not close the vote immediately and decided to keep the process open, hoping to find a way forward.
The GOP lawmakers were instructed to remain on the House floor in preparation for a second vote. This second vote, however, never happened. In a surprising turn of events, Johnson was officially sworn in as the new House speaker on Friday afternoon after securing enough votes.
While the process seemed uncertain at times, Trump’s intervention through phone calls played a key role in shifting the dynamics of the vote. His influence and persistence, even during his golf game, were enough to persuade several Republican representatives to back Johnson and ensure his victory.
Note: Every piece of content is rigorously reviewed by our team of experienced writers and editors to ensure its accuracy. Our writers use credible sources and adhere to strict fact-checking protocols to verify all claims and data before publication. If an error is identified, we promptly correct it and strive for transparency in all updates.
Leave a Comment