Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is facing mounting pressure within his own party as he struggles to navigate a looming government shutdown. His recent attempt to push through a deal with Democrats failed to garner enough support, leaving many Republicans frustrated with his leadership.

Despite his efforts to broker a deal after President-elect Donald Trump intervened to help salvage negotiations before Friday night’s shutdown deadline, Johnson’s leadership is under fire. His decision in September to push the funding deadline to the lame-duck session has only added to the dissatisfaction within the ranks.

Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) delivered a pointed critique of Johnson’s leadership, saying, “I don’t know what’s going on, and really that’s part of the problem,” during a House Republican Conference meeting. She emphasized the lack of communication from leadership to the membership, calling for change before January 3, the date of the next Speaker vote.

With Johnson’s current margin, he can afford to lose just two Republican votes, but discontent is growing. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) has already committed to voting against him, and Rep. Rich McCormick (R-GA) has also expressed opposition.

Malliotakis, though not typically a conservative purist, shares concerns about Johnson’s effectiveness, reflecting the sentiment of many who helped elevate him to the Speaker position 14 months ago. The failed vote on Thursday, coupled with the growing frustration, suggests Johnson may not be the leader Republicans need as they head into the 2024 election cycle with Trump returning to the Oval Office.

With the shutdown deadline approaching and Republicans increasingly disillusioned with Johnson, there are signs that a shakeup could be imminent. The pressure is mounting, and Johnson’s position appears more precarious as January’s vote nears. The question remains: will he survive the GOP rebellion or face a leadership change?