"Louisiana Republican Mike Johnson emerges as House speaker, sparking speculation"

Republican Rep. Mike Johnson of Louisiana has been elected as the new speaker of the House of Representatives, ending a three-week leadership crisis. Johnson, a hard-right conservative, received unanimous support from all 220 Republicans who cast a ballot. In his address to Congress, he pledged to bring a resolution expressing solidarity with Israel in its war against Hamas as his first bill. Johnson's bid was boosted by former President Donald Trump's endorsement and the backing of moderate New York Republicans. As House speaker, Johnson will face challenges such as a looming government shutdown, Israel's conflict with Hamas, and Russia's invasion of Ukraine.