Who is Mike Johnson? An ardent conservative who embraces far-right policies

Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La., takes the oath to be the new House speaker from the Dean of the House Rep. Hal Rogers, R-Ky., at the Capitol in Washington, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

After weeks of uncertainty, House Republicans elected Louisiana Rep. Mike Johnson, a conservative Christian who opposes abortion rights and same-sex marriages, to become House speaker.

While his hardline conservative record is not one that’s widely known nationally, it’s being celebrated by many Republicans in his home state who are welcoming what they see as an important moment in Louisiana’s history.

The state’s GOP Gov.-elect Jeff Landry praised Johnson, saying he’s “well-liked by everyone.” Congratulating him on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, Landry stated, “he has the work ethic and tenacity to lead our country in this prestigious position. Louisiana is proud!”