During the recent government funding negotiations, House Speaker Mike Johnson found himself at the center of attention as lawmakers grappled with reaching a consensus. With the requirement of securing 218 votes to establish a majority in the lower chamber, Johnson humorously welcomed anyone else who could gather the necessary support.
Republican Rep. David Valadao, a key House appropriator involved in the negotiations, acknowledged Johnson's frequent joke about the 218-vote threshold. Valadao highlighted the challenges of uniting the House Republican majority, especially given the recent tumultuous political climate.
