Donald Trump’s former White House chief strategist, Steve Bannon, has taken issue with House Speaker Mike Johnson’s statement that the election of President Joe Biden was ‘God’s will’, arguing for a political leader rather than a ‘theologian’.
What Happened: Bannon on his podcast “The War Room”, refuted Johnson’s assertion that Biden’s presidency was "God's will." Instead, Bannon insisted that the U.S. needs a House Speaker rather than a "theologian," reported The Hill.
Replying to a question, Johnson previously expressed that he is a "Bible-believing Christian” and that he believed that God positions people in power, hence suggesting Biden’s presidency was God's will.
Bannon took issue with this during his podcast and contested Johnson’s remark, declaring Biden as an unauthorized president. He further criticized Johnson, saying, "Don't be a theologian, I don't need a theologian. He is the Speaker of the House. That's what the country needs.”
Johnson’s ascension to Speaker in October reignited the debate on election denialism, as he was among the 147 GOP members who voted against the 2020 election results certification.
Johnson’s religious beliefs have also been questioned in terms of how they impact his stance on certain policies like abortion and the separation of church and state.
See Also: Donald Trump Digs At Jimmy Carter Mentioning Wife’s Funeral, Gets Slammed
Why It Matters: This incident follows a previous clash between Bannon and Johnson. In November 2023, Bannon expressed dissatisfaction with Johnson over the passage of a controversial two-step continuing resolution, as per this Benzinga article.
In January 2024, Johnson faced criticism within his party, but received support from moderate Democrats, as reported by Benzinga. He also dismissed accusations of being an election denier but declined to acknowledge Biden’s victory, as highlighted by Benzinga.
Despite rising tensions within the GOP over a contentious spending agreement, Johnson held firm on the deal, as detailed in this Benzinga article.
Photo Courtesy: Lev Radin On Shutterstock.com
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