House Speaker Mike Johnson's 'Adopted' Son Credits Him for Life Turnaround Amid Scrutiny Over Absence from Family Pictures

Michael Tirrell James, 40, now a Certified Nurse Assistant in California, confirms he asked to stay out of the political limelight of his guardians due to privacy concerns; he credits Johnson's family for saving him from a potential criminal life.

House Speaker Mike Johnson and his wife took Michael Tirrell James into their home when he was homeless at 16, helping him escape a potential life of crime.
James has faced several run-ins with the law over the years, with crimes including drug possession, theft, and violating restraining orders.
Despite having a troubled past, James now lives a stable life as a Certified Nurse Assistant in California, attributing this turnaround to Johnson's family.
While Johnson treats James like his own son, he has never formally adopted him due to the lengthy adoption process.
Despite questioning regarding James' absence from family photos, it is confirmed that this was due to his request to stay out of Johnson's public life.