Biden and Speaker Johnson's Frayed Relationship Contributes to Political Gridlock
• Biden and House Speaker Mike Johnson have no meaningful relationship, contributing to political standstills.
• The White House has dismissed Johnson's request for a one-on-one meeting.
• Biden aides see Johnson as a useful foil to attack on issues like the border and Ukraine.
• Johnson questions the wisdom of a government shutdown but is under pressure from conservatives.
• Few in Biden's inner circle knew Johnson when he became Speaker, and their first substantive call did little to bridge divides.