Mike Johnson Parents: Johnsons Government Shutdown Challenges

May 2024 · 3 minute read

Mike Johnson parents, James Patrick Johnson and Jeanne Johnson, play a significant role in shaping the background and family values of the U.S. Congressman.

Mike Johnson is an American attorney and former talk radio personality. 

He is well-known for his staunch opposition to same-sex partnerships, medical marijuana, and abortion. 

Since 2017, he has been a dedicated member of the Republican Party. 

Johnson proudly represents Louisiana’s 4th congressional district in the United States Congress. 

In addition to his congressional duties, Johnson serves as a senior attorney and national media spokesperson for the Alliance Defense Fund, now known as Alliance Defending Freedom. 

He was previously a partner at the esteemed Kitchens Law Firm.

Johnson currently holds the position of vice chair of the House Republican Conference. 

He previously served as the chair of the House Republican Study Committee. 

Before his tenure in Congress, Johnson represented Bossier Parish’s 8th district in the Louisiana House of Representatives. 

Though he later resigned to pursue his role at the national level, his commitment to public service and conservative values is immense.

Who are Mike Johnson’s parents?

Mike Johnson is the oldest of four children, born to James Patrick Johnson and Jeanne Johnson

After retiring from the fire service, his father established the Percy R. Johnson Burn Foundation, a charity named after the late African-American captain and fire instructor, Percy R. Johnson.

James himself fell victim to a workplace accident, suffering severe burns. 

He has a sister named Laura Johnson, and two brothers named Chris and Josh Johnson.

Challenges Faced by House Speaker Mike Johnson in Avoiding Government Shutdown

House Speaker Mike Johnson has proposed a unique approach to avoid a government shutdown. 

His plan involves extending government funding for certain agencies and programs until January 19th, while others would be funded until February 2nd. 

Johnson aims to address concerns from GOP lawmakers who want to avoid a large spending bill just before the holidays. 

The proposal excludes funding requested by President Joe Biden for Israel, Ukraine, and the U.S.-Mexico border. 

He believes separating Biden’s emergency bill from the temporary measure strengthens Republican stance on fiscal responsibility and meaningful policy changes. 

Some conservatives oppose temporary spending measures but are willing to give Johnson flexibility to pass a continuing resolution (CR) for more negotiation time. 

However, some Republicans criticize the plan for funding Pelosi-level spending and policies.

The White House also dismisses the proposal as “unserious” and a threat to national security and domestic programs, emphasizing the need for bipartisan efforts to prevent a shutdown. 

"When we take our oath of office, we put our hand on the Bible and we swear to uphold the Constitution. We don't put our hand on the Constitution and swear to uphold the Bible."@RepRaskin on Speaker Mike Johnson pic.twitter.com/FHyiRSZm5s

— Inside with Jen Psaki (@InsideWithPsaki) November 12, 2023

The federal government is currently operating under funding levels approved last year. 

Congress passed a 47-day continuing resolution to avoid shutdown, resulting in significant fallout, including the removal of Kevin McCarthy from the speakership. 

Johnson’s proposal extends funding for four spending bills until January 19th, covering veterans programs, transportation, housing, agriculture, and energy.

The remaining eight spending bills, including defense, the State Department, Homeland Security, and other government agencies, would receive funding until February 2nd. 

Moody’s Investors Service recently lowered its outlook on the U.S. government’s debt, citing rising interest rates and political polarization in Congress. 

House Republicans point to the national debt exceeding $33 trillion as a factor in Moody’s decision. 

Johnson responded by expressing the Republican commitment to bipartisan efforts for fiscal restraint, beginning with the introduction of a debt commission.

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