I was admittedly anxious on Friday as I watched the U.S. House voting for its new leader.

After the chaotic scenes of two years ago and the prolonged struggle to elect former Speaker Kevin McCarthy, it was a welcome change to see Republicans unite behind Rep. Mike Johnson from Louisiana on the first ballot. He continues in the position he took on when a small group forced out McCarthy in 2023.

There were a few tense moments with a couple of persistent holdouts, but with a little encouragement (or threats?) from President-elect Donald Trump, two changed their votes, securing the speakership for Johnson.

This is fantastic news for the millions of Americans who supported Trump’s return to the White House.

Trump’s victory in the 2024 election hinged on addressing voters’ primary worries: inflation and border security. These issues resonate with Johnson and new GOP Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota.

Although Republicans control both the White House and Congress, their majority is slim, necessitating collaboration—including with some Democrats—to enact key legislation.

They have a limited window of two years to fulfill their agenda, as voters might seek a change in direction during the midterm elections, depending on Republican governance in the current and following year.

This is a prime opportunity for Republicans to demonstrate what conservatism looks like in action. They have just begun, but I found the remarks from the new GOP leaders in Congress on Friday promising.

Johnson provides strong defense of the U.S. and our government

In his initial address on the floor following his swearing-in, Johnson delivered a motivational speech that emphasized the essence of our nation and how conservative values can help maintain its greatness.

He vowed that addressing border security and controlling inflation would be the chamber’s primary responsibilities.

Here’s what he expressed regarding what defines us as “explicitly American,” highlighting key points for us to consider in his own words:

“We don’t aspire to emulate other nations, and we understand that a strong America benefits the whole world, a fact recognized globally. We also acknowledge that the foundational principles which shaped America must be upheld today … individual liberty, limited government, the rule of law, peace through strength, fiscal prudence, free enterprise, human dignity. These are the key elements that define us, and in America, we know that the best way to promote human flourishing is by adhering to enduring truths.”

These principles should serve as a fundamental checklist for any new legislative initiatives.

Thune is a capable leader aiming to uphold the Senate

The incoming Senate majority leader also made a compelling case for our government and outlined his key objectives. He acknowledged that his members have “a significant amount of work ahead.”

Thune stated: “2025 is bound to be a challenging year, but we have a unique opportunity to achieve meaningful progress for the American public through continued tax relief, secure borders, and national safety, among other priorities.”

It’s essential to maintain a secure border and promote lawful immigration.

Thune’s dedication to upholding the Senate’s current functioning was especially reassuring. He expressed his opposition to any initiatives aimed at eliminating the filibuster, which necessitates a greater majority to pass laws.

“Many individuals would prefer to see the Senate resemble the House of Representatives,” Thune noted. “This is not what our founders envisioned, nor is it what our nation requires.”

He makes a valid point, which stands in stark contrast to the Democrats’ efforts, including President Joe Biden’s push in 2022 to suspend the filibuster. Fortunately, their shortsighted proposal did not succeed.

Americans have placed their trust in these Republicans to produce outcomes. They have made a promising beginning and selected credible leaders within Congress. Moreover, Trump appears to be dedicated to collaborating with them.

I sincerely hope they do not mishandle this opportunity.