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Rep. Ralph Norman, RSC, originally voted for Jim Jordan for Speaker of the House on Friday, but President-elect Trump was able to convince him to change his voice – while working on his golf game.
Norman was one of three Republicans who initially refused to vote yes Mike Johnson will retain his role.
Speaking to reporters Friday, Norman said Trump called him repeatedly to try to influence his vote for speaker.
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Former President Trump watches a tee shot on the third tee during the pre-LIV Golf Invitational – Bedminster pro at Trump National Golf Club on August 10, 2023. in Bedminster, New Jersey (Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
In Trump’s first phone call to Norman, Trump went through the links.
“He said, ‘Look, I’m in the middle of a golf game.’ It was the first time I talked to him.” Norman said via MediaIte.
“He said, ‘Well, you voted for Nicky Haley.’ I said, “Yes sir, we are with you now.” And I said, “We’ll be with Mike Johnson.”
Trump owns many golf courses, one of which was the site of a second attempt on his life in the summer Trump’s USGA handicap was once 2.5 and he claims to have recorded eight holes in one.
Trump also spoke to Keith Self, R-Texas, by phone to sway Self’s vote, Fox News Digital reported.
Spokesman Ralph Norman, RSC, speaks to reporters. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
He himself confirmed to reporters that he spoke with Trump several times on the phone on Friday.
“I talked to him a few times today,” Self said. “We had a lively discussion.”
Rep. Nancy Mays, RSC, put Trump in touch with Self and Norman by phone after they voted against Johnson, the sources said.
Johnson won the speakership of the House of Representatives in the first round of voting, after initially looking like he might lose.
Self, Norman and Rep. Thomas Massey, R-Ky., each voted for lawmakers other than Johnson and appeared to put the speaker’s gavel out of reach.
But House leaders have not officially closed the vote, figuring out a way forward. GOP lawmakers were told to report to the House floor immediately to prepare for a second vote.
Donald Trump is playing golf (Getty Images)
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However, there was no second vote and Johnson was sworn in as speaker on Friday afternoon.
Elizabeth Elkind of Fox News contributed to this report.
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