Divisions Among MAGA Leaders Could Mean No Trump Inauguration on Jan. 20

A potential constitutional crisis looms over the United States as concerns grow about the House of Representatives' ability to certify Donald Trump's recent election victory. The controversy centers around House Speaker Mike Johnson's tenuous position and the upcoming congressional session beginning January 3. JASON BEAN/RGJ / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The House's first crucial task is selecting a speaker, but Republican divisions threaten to complicate this process. With a razor-thin Republican majority of 219-215 (following Matt Gaetz's departure), Johnson needs 218 votes to retain his position. Representative Thomas Massie has already declared his opposition, with others remaining uncommitted. Jack Gruber, Jack Gruber / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The situation is particularly critical because without a speaker, the House may be unable to certify the presidential election results by January 6, as legally required. While the certification process can extend beyond that date, it must conclude by January 20, when the current presidential term expires. Kendall Hoopes / Pexels

The tension has been exacerbated by recent conflicts over government funding. Trump's intervention in shutdown negotiations, particularly his demands regarding the debt ceiling, has strained his relationship with Johnson. Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images

Constitutional experts are divided on potential solutions. Some suggest the joint session could proceed without a speaker, while others propose alternative arrangements like a temporary speaker or having the House clerk swear in new members. If no solution is found, the presidential succession would bypass both the outgoing administration and the empty speaker position, potentially leading to Senator Chuck Grassley, the Senate president pro tempore, assuming the presidency. Jack Gruber-USA TODAY