Mike Johnson steps down as House Republican leader after Democrats win majority

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., announced Wednesday he will not remain as Republican leader in the new Congress, following Democrats' victory in the House majority a day earlier. His decision leaves the minority leader position open. Johnson's announcement came during a staff phone call, according to four sources. Republicans will hold an internal election Nov. 10 to select their candidate. Majority Leader Steve Scalise plans to announce his bid Wednesday, while Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan is also running, citing his readiness to combat Democratic investigations. Rep. August Pfluger, R-Texas, will challenge Majority Whip Tom Emmer for the whip position. Johnson, who won re-election Tuesday, is expected to stay in the House, though it's unclear if he will serve his full term.