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U.S. Rep. Mike Johnson of Louisiana has secured more than 120 of his House colleagues' signatures on the "Commitment to Civility" pledge, but he'd like land President Trump.

"I would love for him to sign it," Johnson, R-Benton, said in an interview with The Times Editorial Board Tuesday.

Johnson wouldn't say he believes Trump could use a dose of civility. No, Johnson was more civil in his assessment.

"I support the president," Johnson said. "We don't always communicate in the same way. His style appeals to many Americans, but it does turn off others to his message."

But Johnson said he has sensed his pledge is gaining traction.

The origins came during the freshman retreat when members were snowed in at a resort in colonial Williamsburg.

"We bonded, and everybody seemed to have the same sentiment," said Johnson.

Johnson returned home from the retreat and drafted the document.

After 53 of the 55 freshman signed on, "I decided to make it a Congress-wide effort."

His effort captured attention from national media, giving the movement momentum.

"It's been very gratifying, and it's not just symbolic," Johnson said. "We remind each of of it when debates get heated."

He believes that the return of fellow U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise, R-Louisiana, the majority whip recovering from wounds inflicted by a gunman at congressional baseball practice, will also bolster the effort.

Johnson said he will ask Scalise to sign the pledge.

"I believe Steve can be a very important voice in the discussion when he returns," he said.

Other topics addressed by Johnson included:

Repeal of the Affordable Care Act: Johnson said he supports U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy's effort to pass a replacement bill. "We need something to pass the Senate so it can go into conference and we can iron out our differences," he said.

Johnson called it "a great tragedy" that the Senate declined to pass the House version of repeal and replace.

Tax reform: Johnson said he will support legislation to "create a simpler, fairer and flatter" tax system for individuals and businesses.

President Trump is encouraging Congress to craft such a bill.

"I love the president's idea to reduce the corporate tax rate to 15 percent (from 35 percent), but I don't know if it's feasible," he said. "I'd be happy if we could get 20 or 21 percent."

For individuals, Johnson said Americans "should be able to file their tax returns on a post card. We need to simplify and eliminate loopholes.," he said.