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Podcast Teaser Shows Mike Johnson’s Awkward ‘Shaka’ as He Boasts of Jelly Roll Selfies

The clip drew derisive coverage that underscores questions about his political image during a difficult stretch for Republicans.

Overview

  • A preview of Katie Miller’s podcast shows the House speaker flashing a shaka hand sign when asked if he knows Jelly Roll, replying that they “have selfies together.”
  • Johnson previously posted selfies with the musician after meeting him at a UFC event at Madison Square Garden, writing, “UFC at MSG was epic!”
  • The Daily Beast characterized the exchange as “excruciating,” a judgment amplified in coverage that focused on tone over policy.
  • Johnson’s wife, Kelly, appears in the segment and offers a “men’s brains are like waffles” analogy as he nods along.
  • The full episode is slated to publish Tuesday, with attention so far centered on the short clip and a smattering of critical social media reactions.