'I'm not at church': Republicans slam Mike Johnson for 'horrible sermon' at GOP retreat
Republicans are slamming Speaker Mike Johnson for what they say was an overly religious sermon delivered at a weekend G.O.P. retreat, according to a new report.
Johnson (R-L.A.) was supposed to speak to Republican lawmakers at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Miami about holding onto the party’s House majority, but sources told Politico the topic was less tactics and more tenets.
“I’m not at church,” one source told Politico. “The sermon was so long.”
Johnson, a devout Christian, reportedly bemoaned declining church membership, referenced Bible verses, and tried to argue God was in the party’s political corner.
“I think what he was trying to do, but failed on the execution of it, was try to bring us together,” the source told Politico.
“He couldn't bring it back to make the point,” the source added, and described the presentation as “horrible.”
This isn't the first time Johnson's unshakable faith made for unpalatable headlines.
A fellow Christian, and a minister, compared Johnson to the devil over draconian policy that ignores the needs of the nation's neediest.
After Johnson was elevated to the House speakership, disturbing reports surfaced of a Jewish family forced to flee their home town when the Louisiana Republican warned of enemies of the gospel.
Johnson's ties to Christian evangelicals who believe the Bible justifies slavery have also raised serious concerns.