Mike Johnson is fighting for his political life, again. The Louisiana Republican's hold on the House speaker's gavel and his position as second in line to the presidency will be tested Friday when a new Congress convenes and House Republicans weigh whether to reelect him to the post.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) said there is no time for Republicans to engage in “palace drama” ahead of Friday’s speakership vote, in which he aims to retain the gavel going into the 119th Congress.

Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Jake Auchincloss told CNN on Thursday morning that Democrats will not assist Republican Mike Johnson in the election to remain House Speaker this time, but Johnson should start reaching across the aisle if he wants his legislation to pass: CNN: Speaker Johnson is in a very precarious position where you've had several Republicans come out and say that they won't likely vote for him for speaker.