Summary
Speaker Mike Johnson is calling U.S. House members back to session after keeping it closed during the government's long shutdown. Lawmakers are set to address a number of pending issues, starting with a vote to reopen the government. The situation highlights Johnson's approach to leadership and his interactions with other government branches.
Key Facts
- Speaker Mike Johnson had not convened the U.S. House during a long government shutdown.
- He is recalling lawmakers to address pending legislative demands.
- The first agenda item is to vote on reopening the government.
- The session will also focus on other matters like the Jeffrey Epstein files and swearing in a new representative.
- Johnson's decision to keep the House closed differed from historical norms.
- The prolonged closure allowed more influence by the executive branch, under President Donald Trump.
- Johnson has criticized Democrats, saying they caused the shutdown over health care funding disagreements.
- During the shutdown, Johnson said the House had done its part by passing a funding bill, placing responsibility on the Senate.
