
House Speaker Mike Johnson’s office faces a series of high-level staff departures, including communications director Raj Shah and three top policy advisors.

Shah, a former Trump administration official, is the latest to resign.

Despite commitments to support Johnson after the prior speaker’s removal, the policy advisors are all set to depart by the end of May, posing challenges for the GOP ahead of the crucial November elections.

Yaworske, known for his expertise in appropriations and budget matters, and Hill, responsible for artificial intelligence and education policies, decided to join the lobbying firm Michael Best Strategies.

The series of resignations within Johnson’s nine-member team also included the departure of the head of digital, Anang Mittal, who cited performance-related issues and encounters with “unprofessional outbursts” from higher-ups as reasons for resigning.

The departure of Shah, in particular, is perceived as a significant setback for Johnson in his efforts to maintain a strong rapport with Trump loyalists within the Republican Party.

Shah, with his background in the White House, was seen as a vital connection to the former president’s supporters, who have been critical of Johnson’s leadership.

In response to the vacancies, Johnson swiftly made appointments, with Meredith Schellin stepping in as the new digital director and Dan Ziegler assuming the role previously held by Specht, McCarthy’s chief policy director.

Johnson’s tenure as speaker has encountered resistance from the hard-right faction of the party, spearheaded by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Georgia).

Greene accused Johnson of advancing the Democrats’ agenda by supporting aid packages for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, attempting to remove him.

Greene also criticized Johnson for being influenced by the Democrats. The Republican Party’s fragile hold on the House of Representatives raises concerns for party leaders, especially with the 2024 elections approaching.

The departure of key staff from Johnson’s office adds to the challenges he is currently facing.
