Speaker Johnson, Leader Thune Skeptical of Trump’s Proposal to Overturn Filibuster

‘It is not my call,’ Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said of the Senate chamber issue. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has consistently defended the filibuster.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins speak at a press conference during the 31st day of the government shutdown in Washington on Oct. 31, 2025. Madalina Kilroy/The Epoch Times

WASHINGTON—House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) have defended the value of the filibuster after President Donald Trump urged Senate Republicans to eliminate it in order to fund the government.

“The filibuster has traditionally been viewed as a very important safeguard. If the shoe was on the other foot, I don’t think our team would like it,” Johnson told reporters at a press conference with Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins on Oct. 31, the 31st day of the government shutdown.