Mike Johnson looks up while presiding over the House. Then-Speaker Kevin McCarthy stares at the camera.
House Speaker Mike Johnson has a tougher job thanks to former Speaker Kevin McCarthy, his ousted predecessor
  • Former Speaker Kevin McCarthy was forced to cut deals to win the speakership.
  • McCarthy's agreements are now making Speaker Mike Johnson's life more difficult.
  • In particular, McCarthy granted power to conservatives who frequently defy Johnson's wishes.

House Speaker Mike Johnson can blame his problems on his predecessor, former Speaker Kevin McCarthy.