Johnson becomes speaker; promises to work with democrats

(Washington, DC)  --  Republican Mike Johnson of Louisiana has been elected Speaker of the House.    

On the first ballot today, the Louisiana Republican got enough votes after failed attempts from three other fellow Republicans to win the gavel.  

He is replacing California Republican Kevin McCarthy who was recently voted out of his position. 

Johnson acknowledged the process was a "grueling battle."

Johnson said he's humbled, and went on to promise he will immediately address pressing issues.  

Those issues include passing legislation to fund the government before mid-November and providing aid to Ukraine and Israel.