GOP Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia has initiated a motion to remove Mike Johnson from the speakership, citing dissatisfaction with the government funding bill from the House Republican Conference’s right wing. The motion, the most aggressive challenge to Johnson’s leadership yet, signals a growing dissent from the conservative faction.
The move marks a significant intensification of the intra-party divisions that have heightened since Johnson assumed the speakership following Kevin McCarthy’s removal last year. Greene’s motion signifies the initial step toward triggering a process that could result in leadership upheaval, reminiscent of the chaos that ensued during the previous transition.
Johnson’s leadership has faced scrutiny due to his reliance on Democratic votes to advance key legislation, resulting in compromises that some conservative hardliners find unacceptable. Greene emphasized that her motion serves as a warning rather than an immediate action, expressing respect for the conference while also highlighting her commitment to conservative principles.
Republicans, Via Marjorie Taylor Greene, Seek to Quell Internal Discord
Following Greene’s filing, fellow GOP lawmakers engaged in discussions with her, aiming to dissuade her from pursuing the motion further. Concerns have been raised about potential repercussions, including the risk of jeopardizing the GOP’s slim majority in the House, particularly with the impending departure of Representative Mike Gallagher.
While some Republicans view Greene’s actions as detrimental to the party’s image, others sympathize with her concerns regarding the funding bill’s contents. Despite internal disagreements, efforts to address broader issues, such as aid to Ukraine and Gaza, could potentially garner bipartisan support, as indicated by Democratic Representative Jamie Raskin’s willingness to collaborate on these matters.