House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., said he is uncertain what his next chapter would look like if Republicans lose control of the House in November, even as he continues to insist that he expects the GOP to retain its majority.

In a Fox News interview, Johnson acknowledged that he could potentially leave Congress if Democrats take control of the House.

“Heaven forbid, if we lose this majority or whatever, I don't know what my next chapter of life is,” Johnson said. He added that if he believed it was time to return to his hometown of Shreveport and start a lawn business, he would do so “with equal fervor.”

Johnson said his priority is serving wherever he can make the greatest contribution.

“I just want to be of my highest and best use,” he said.

Despite acknowledging the possibility of a political exit, Johnson made clear that he is not planning for a Republican defeat.

“I’m going to be the speaker in the next Congress,” Johnson said. “I’m not going to talk about the scenario where we don’t win the House, because I am laser-focused on winning the House.”

Johnson is leading an aggressive campaign effort ahead of the midterms, traveling through more than 40 congressional districts in 22 states. His schedule includes competitive races in Pennsylvania, Michigan and Ohio, where Republicans are defending seats that could be critical to maintaining their majority.

His fundraising operation has also provided significant financial support to House Republicans. Johnson raised $30 million during the third quarter, bringing his total for the election cycle to $156 million, according to Axios. His operation has distributed more than $91 million to Republican candidates, committees and state parties, including $46 million to the National Republican Congressional Committee.

Republicans nevertheless face a difficult battle to preserve their narrow majority. The Cook Political Report recently moved 15 House races in the direction of Democrats as concerns over the economy, rising living costs and the ongoing war with Iran weigh on the political landscape.

Johnson was also asked whether he would accept responsibility if Republicans lose the House. He defended his campaign efforts, pointing to his extensive travel and fundraising on behalf of the party.

If Democrats take control, Republicans would also face a leadership contest. Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, and Majority Whip Tom Emmer, R-Minn., are among the Republicans who have been mentioned as potential candidates for leadership.

For now, Johnson is publicly focused on retaining the majority and returning to the speakership, while leaving open the possibility that his political career could take a different direction if Republicans lose the House.