House Speaker Mike Johnson Criticized Amid Government Shutdown Dispute and Swearing-In Delay

House Speaker Mike Johnson has taken a firm stance against negotiating with Democrats over the ongoing government shutdown, labeling their tactics as "legislative terrorism" and refusing to compromise on issues including Obamacare subsidies. Despite criticism from within his party, notably from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene who accused Republicans of inaction on healthcare, Johnson defended GOP efforts as ongoing but constrained by media scrutiny on conference calls. Johnson's handling of the shutdown extends to procedural actions such as delaying the swearing-in of newly elected Democratic Congresswoman Adelita Grijalva, citing precedent amid the shutdown, which has limited her ability to serve her constituents effectively and led to public rebuke. Johnson has also avoided commenting on significant controversies surrounding President Donald Trump, including reports of Trump seeking a $230 million settlement from the Justice Department and other legal issues, exemplifying a broader Republican strategy of non-engagement with such topics. These developments illustrate Johnson's combative leadership style and the complex political dynamics shaping the current legislative impasse in Washington.