The Republican whip outlines his efforts to advance the president’s plans in a narrowly divided House, maintaining relationships and humor along the way.

On the left, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer from Minnesota is seen conversing with Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler from Pennsylvania. This image was captured in July in Emmer’s office located on Capitol Hill. (Photo: Maxine Wallace/The Washington Post)

This week illustrated the challenges faced by House Republicans as they attempt to govern with a minimal majority. Some votes didn’t pass, while others were abandoned altogether. House Speaker Mike Johnson from Louisiana dismissed the chamber after several Republicans crossed party lines, demanding that President Donald Trump limit involvement in the war in Iran.