Why Can't Mike Johnson and John Thune Just Get Along?

Ask Congress’ top two leaders about each other, and you’ll hear all the expected pleasantries — on the surface.

When I asked Speaker Mike Johnson about Senate Majority Leader John Thune at a POLITICO Live event Tuesday, he was quick to praise the South Dakotan as a “principled” and “experienced” counterpart. He called Thune a straight shooter and spoke graciously about a recent dinner they’d shared with their wives.

Thune, in turn, commended his “strong working relationship” with...