Rep. Mike Johnson wins race for RSC chairman

Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.) was elected to succeed Rep. Mark Walker (R-N.C.) as chairman of the Republican Study Committee on Friday.

Johnson, a freshman member, edged out Rep. Tom McClintock (R-Calif.) in the race to lead the largest conservative caucus in Congress.

“We’re just honored to have the trust of our colleagues and I’m really thankful for the opportunity. As I’ve said to all of my colleagues since the summer, I really believe the next two years are going to be the RSC’s finest moment,” Johnson said following his win.

“It’s never been more important than it is now to speak with clarity, conviction and consistency about what we believe, why we believe it and why it’s best for America.”

Walker, who was elected vice chairman of the House Republican Conference earlier this week, said he looks forward to working with Johnson on messaging and conservative priorities.

“The RSC is in great hands moving forward with his experience, both in his legal field as well as the values that he has been representing long before he came to Congress. That puts us up for a good two years,” Walker said.

The position has been a springboard into leadership positions and higher office for a number of GOP lawmakers. Vice President Pence, House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) and Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) have all served in the role.

Rep. Bill Flores (R-Texas), who served as chairman during the 114th Congress, said while he voted for McClintock, he believed Johnson will succeed in the position.

“The good thing is we were blessed to have two great options, two great leaders running to be our RSC chair. And the RSC membership picked Mike and I think we are in good hands with him,” he said.

“I supported Tom, but I still feel really good about the outcome and what I’m hoping Mike will do is use Tom as part of our budget task force, because he does great work.”

Walker is slated to hand over the gavel to Johnson in December.