The collapse of the continuing resolution spending bill is putting House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., under intense scrutiny. Meanwhile, Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., floated an unexpected idea—replacing Johnson with Elon Musk, President-elect Trump's pick to co-chair the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Paul made the suggestion on Musk’s X platform, highlighting that the House Speaker doesn’t need to be a member of Congress. "The Speaker of the House need not be a member of Congress… Nothing would disrupt the swamp more than electing Elon Musk… think about it," Paul posted. He added, "Nothing’s impossible," and noted it would send the political establishment into a frenzy.
Musk, known for his sharp criticism of government waste, has also weighed in on the spending bill debate. He called for lawmakers who backed the bill to be held accountable. "Any member of the House or Senate who votes for this outrageous spending bill deserves to be voted out in 2 years!" Musk posted on X. Conservatives, including President-elect Trump, echoed his sentiments, urging the bill's rejection.
House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., confirmed the bill’s demise late Wednesday. Johnson faced sharp criticism from Republican colleagues for his handling of the issue, fueling questions about his leadership.
It’s unclear if Paul was entirely serious or simply making a provocative statement. Democratic strategist Jimmy Williams dismissed the idea. "Senators should stick to Senating and House Members should stick to their Chamber," Williams wrote on X, brushing off Paul’s suggestion.
However, not everyone dismissed it. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., voiced her support. "I’d be open to supporting @elonmusk for Speaker of the House," Greene wrote. She argued that Musk’s leadership could shatter establishment norms and bring real government efficiency.
Johnson became Speaker after Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., was ousted last year in a historic vote led by Republican rebels. Now, with Democrats united against him and tensions within his party, Johnson’s position appears precarious.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., confirmed no Democrats would back Johnson’s spending bill. With a slim Republican majority, Johnson’s hold on the gavel is anything but secure.
Adding to the drama, Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., said he wouldn’t support Johnson unless there’s a "Christmas miracle." Meanwhile, Rep. Victoria Spartz, R-Ind., announced she’d stop caucusing with Republicans, potentially leaving Johnson’s future hinging on a single vote.