House Speaker

Michigan lawmakers passed an $85 billion budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year after an all-night session, avoiding a government shutdown. The budget includes $63 billion for state agencies and $22.9 billion for K-12 and higher education, with funding sourced from general and school aid funds. Lawmakers addressed a $1 billion revenue shortfall through cuts and efficiencies but did not implement new taxes proposed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Donald Trump is advancing his plan to appoint Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence, despite bipartisan congressional opposition. Lawmakers warn the move could derail the reauthorization of a surveillance law set to expire this week, citing concerns over Pulte’s lack of national security experience and potential misuse of surveillance powers.

YouTuber Jesse Ridgway and his wife terminated a pregnancy after a Down syndrome diagnosis, sharing an emotional account of their decision. The announcement sparked public debate and criticism, with House Speaker Mike Johnson defending the inherent dignity of all individuals regardless of health conditions.

The article discusses the correlation between few contested legislative races and a high number of ballot questions in Massachusetts, suggesting this reflects a decline in democratic engagement. Jay Kaufman, a former state representative, argues that unopposed elections lead to legislative underperformance and reduced accountability, with citizens resorting to initiatives due to legislative inaction and hierarchical control by House and Senate leaders.

House Speaker Mike Johnson defended the Trump administration’s tentative deal with Iran, which includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz and a 60-day ceasefire extension. Iranian officials have disputed parts of the deal, and the fate of Iran’s nuclear program was not addressed.

House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune are clashing over Homeland Security funding, complicating efforts to end a 72-day government shutdown. Johnson seeks to modify a Senate-passed bill to secure House votes, while Thune emphasizes ensuring proper funding. The dispute centers on language zeroing out ICE and Border Patrol funding in the Senate bill, with potential delays until mid-May if reconciliation is delayed.

House Speaker Mike Johnson praised President Trump for being 'strongest in times of crisis' following a gunman incident at the White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) dinner. Johnson highlighted Trump's 'remarkably calm' response, which media outlets have noted as a demonstration of leadership during the event.

Republicans are intensifying efforts to close the gap in Virginia's redistricting election. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., is supporting a group opposing the Virginia redistricting referendum.