In a lengthy statement posted to Truth Social on Monday, Trump urged Republicans not to “blow this great opportunity” to advance the party’s agenda after winning both chambers of Congress and the White House, arguing Johnson is a strong leader to achieve that in the House. Trump’s endorsement comes amid a growing number of House Republicans expressing dissatisfaction with Johnson over his handling of the government spending deal earlier this month, with some even threatening to vote against his speakership bid on Jan. 3.

“Speaker Mike Johnson is a good, hard working, religious man. He will do the right thing, and we will continue to WIN,” Trump wrote. “Mike has my Complete & Total Endorsement. MAGA!!!”

Before lawmakers can be sworn in on Friday, they must vote to elect a speaker to preside over the chamber. On that day, Republicans will have a 219-215 majority, meaning Johnson can only afford to lose one party member’s support before it tanks his bid altogether.

Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) has already said he would not vote for Johnson, and a handful of others have suggested they are considering other options. Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-IN) released a list of demands for Johnson on Monday to create “temporary structures” for reconciliation offset policies, authorizations, and spending audits.

House Freedom Caucus Chairman Andy Harris (R-MD) has also asked for specific commitments from Johnson before being able to back him.

A dragged-out speaker’s race isn’t necessarily new for the GOP majority. When former Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) tried his hand at becoming speaker in January 2023, it took four days and 15 ballots to secure the gavel. And even that came at a cost as McCarthy was forced to make a number of side deals with members to secure their support — with one of those agreements eventually leading to his ouster. 

But with Trump’s endorsement, it could be enough for Johnson to secure the gavel for a second term.