The recent elevation to U.S. House speaker of a relative unknown set off a wave of declarative side-taking. Some pointed to hopes for civility and responsible government. Others to controversial stands on social issues and the division they can sow. For our senior congressional writer, the news meant sifting factual accounts of Mike Johnson’s words and actions, and not getting caught in the efforts to shape any particular narrative. Gail Chaddock guest hosts this episode.