Authored by Jim Rennacci,

As a former member of Congress and lifelong Republican, I've watched the unfolding saga surrounding the election of a new Speaker of the House with equal parts frustration and intrigue. The stakes couldn't be higher—not just for the Republican Party, but for the future of our country. Former President Donald Trump's endorsement of Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) for the role has added fuel to an already blazing fire within our party, sparking both support and dissent among conservative ranks.

One vocal critic of this decision, Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY), raises a critical concern by comparing this endorsement to Trump's 2017 backing of then-Speaker Paul Ryan. For many conservatives, Ryan's tenure as Speaker symbolized a period of disappointment and disillusionment. Ryan's leadership often left Trump's agenda hamstrung. That's likely why Massie's comparison resonates with so many. Massie's cautionary words remind us that we cannot afford a repeat of history—especially with so much on the line.