Speaker Johnson rejects 'nonsense narrative' that GOP will refuse to seat Dem winners
House Speaker Mike Johnson rejected a question from CNN chief congressional correspondent Manu Raju about seating newly elected Democrats as a "nonsense narrative."While campaigning in Iowa for Republican Rep.Zach Nunn, whose seat is among those Democrats are targeting ahead of next week's midterm elections, Johnson fielded questions from Raju about President Donald Trump and the GOP's political strategy during the elections and beyond."Will you vow to seat every Democrat who wins on January 3rd?" Raju asked, referring to the day elected members will be sworn in."Of course, this is a nonsense narrative," Johnson replied.
"We are going to follow the law."THUNE WEIGHS NIGHTMARE SCENARIO FOR GOP AS DEMOCRATS THREATEN TO FLIP HOUSEU.S.Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., said the idea of the GOP refusing to seat victorious Democrats is a "nonsense narrative." ((Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images))"What if Trump says ‘it's a rigged election’?" Raju asked."Look, I'm a constitutional attorney.
I've always been steady and consistent about this.This is going to be a no-drama swearing-in ceremony, but we're going to hold the majority, and I'm going to be the Speaker of the House," Johnson said.
"And when I administer the oath, there will be one on January 3rd.We'll administer the oath to everybody."Raju pressed Johnson, "If Trump says 'don't seat them,' you'll resist, then?""I'll do my job as the Speaker of the House," Johnson replied.
"The president has vowed, of course, he wants to follow the law as well.That's what's going to happen."Johnson also defended Trump’s involvement in midterm races, saying he is having "no drag at all" on Republicans’ chances.NEWSOM SPARS WITH TRUMP-APPOINTED PROSECUTOR OVER 20,000 SUSPECTED NONCITIZENS ON VOTER ROLLSPresident Donald Trump listens as North Carolina Republican U.S.
Senate nominee Michael Whatley speaks at a campaign rally at Pitt–Greenville Airport, Tuesday, Oct.20, 2026, in Greenville, N.C.
(Matt Ramey/AP Phot...