AUBURN, Maine — House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed confidence that Republicans will maintain and expand their congressional majority in the upcoming midterm elections. Johnson, a five-term Republican from Louisiana, shared his prediction during a conversation with Fox News Digital.

Traditionally, the party in power faces challenges in midterm elections, often losing seats in Congress. This year, several factors, such as lingering inflation and President Donald Trump’s low approval ratings, could influence the outcome. Despite these challenges, Johnson believes internal conflicts within the Democratic Party present an opportunity for Republicans.

“The Democrats are in almost an open civil war right now,” Johnson told Fox News Digital.

Johnson described the midterms as a “contrast election,” focusing on differences between Republican candidates and their Democratic counterparts. He has launched an initiative called “Contrast for America,” aiming to highlight these differences.

In Maine’s 2nd Congressional District, Johnson joined former Governor Paul LePage. The district has become a key focus for Republicans, especially since Democratic Rep. Jared Golden chose not to seek re-election. Johnson stated, “We’re going to flip a blue seat red here.”

Paul LePage will run against Democratic nominee Matt Dunlap, a former Maine Secretary of State. LePage criticized Dunlap’s political stance as being too far left, but Dunlap argued that his priorities address widespread concerns.

Meanwhile, Johnson is actively visiting key House races across 18 states. He praised the Republican candidates, calling them the “highest quality” seen in years. In response, Democrats have criticized the GOP for contributing to high living costs, with Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee spokesperson Viet Shelton saying, “Everything is too damn expensive because of House Republicans.”

Despite these criticisms, Johnson remains confident in securing Republican victories in the upcoming elections.