Speaker Mike Johnson’s (R-La.) handling of an end-of-year spending deal is throwing his grasp on his gavel into uncertain territory ahead of a critical Jan. 3 Speaker vote, as some GOP lawmakers question their support for the Louisiana Republican.

Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) on Wednesday came out against Johnson in light of the spending deal, pledging to oppose him on the House floor next month. And a handful of other Republicans are not saying if they will support Johnson next month, leaving their options open as criticism of the Speaker mounts.

Hardline House Republicans who have been party to gavel battles in the past, meanwhile, say chatter is increasing about Speaker alternatives, raising serious questions about Johnson’s fate in the top job.

Rep. Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.) said that discussion about alternatives to Johnson is “the most I’ve ever heard.”

Another House Republican tied Johnson’s fate to the negotiated spending package: “If this passes, the Speaker’s in real trouble,” the lawmaker said.

Even if Johnson abandons the bill, his handling of the situation could leave GOP members sour on his leadership.

Opposition to the spending deal from President-elect Trump — whose prior support for Johnson helped him get unanimously nominated for Speaker last month — and Elon Musk, who huddled with Republicans at the Capitol recently but has been incessantly posting on X against the bill — is putting even more heat on the Speaker as he looks to navigate the last legislative landmine of the 118th Congress.

The bill unveiled Tuesday evening combines an extension of government funding through March 14 with a number of add-ons, including disaster assistance for hurricanes damage and farmers; a health care deal that includes reforms to the pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) industry; an extension of the farm bill; and an increase........

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