What Does Mike Johnson Think His Job Is?
House Speaker Mike Johnson is facing criticism for his hands-off approach to a scandal involving Republican Representative Max Miller. Johnson has declined to intervene in allegations of domestic abuse and drug use, citing that it is not his business as Speaker.
Why it matters
The Speaker's refusal to address internal caucus scandals raises questions about leadership accountability and the potential impact on Republican electoral prospects.
The House speaker doesn’t want to get involved in the Max Miller scandal—or anything else that might seem like part of his basic duties as a leader.
Kent Nishimura / Getty August 5, 2026, 5:17 PM ET Share Save This is an edition of The Atlantic Daily, a newsletter that guides you through the biggest stories of the day, helps you discover new ideas, and recommends the best in culture. Sign up for it here.
This morning, House Speaker Mike Johnson finally broke his silence on the scandal engulfing Representative Max Miller of Ohio. Well, sort of—Johnson didn’t have much to say.
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