House Speaker Mike Johnson appeared headed for defeat before two Republicans switched their vote, delivering him a majority.

The fate of Mike Johnson’s gavel rested on the House of Representatives and members-elect of the 119th Congress. On Friday, the first day of the session, Republicans didn’t support Johnson on the first vote even after he engaged in some last-minute lobbying ahead of the vote.

Kentucky Congressman Thomas Massie was removed from the House Rules Committee after he opposed the re-election of House Speaker Mike Johnson.

Rep. Thomas Massie, one of the most outspoken critics of House Speaker Mike Johnson, is off the powerful House Rules Committee, which plays a critical role in the functioning of the lower chamber of Congress.