House Democrats are considering assisting Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, in retaining his position if threatened by Republican rebels. This assistance would likely occur if Johnson put legislation on foreign aid, particularly focusing on Ukraine and Israel, on the House floor for a vote. While Democrats are willing to support Johnson, they would follow the lead of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Some Democrats, like Rep. Adam Smith, are concerned about providing aid to Ukraine and are open to helping Johnson if he prioritizes this issue.
Rep. Thomas Massie and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene have threatened to file a motion to remove Johnson from his leadership position, potentially triggering a vote on his ouster. However, Democrats may not necessarily have to vote against ousting Johnson, as a vote to table the motion could effectively end it. By not voting on a motion to vacate, Democrats could potentially help Johnson maintain his position. As the leader of a slim House GOP majority, Johnson may require Democratic support to stay in power.
Some Democrats, like Rep. Seth Moulton, believe that a deal could be reached with Johnson, but it would have to originate from the Republican side. Moulton emphasized that simply passing aid to Ukraine would not be sufficient for Democrats to assist Johnson. Rep. Beyer echoed similar sentiments and indicated that a proposal from Johnson on foreign aid could potentially lead to a deal with Democrats. While Johnson has faced bipartisan pressure to address foreign aid, specific details regarding a potential deal remain unclear.
Rep. Jared Moskowitz expressed willingness to vote to table a motion to oust Johnson if he were to advance foreign aid legislation. Moskowitz emphasized the importance of maintaining the world order and supporting allies with necessary aid to prevent them from turning to other countries for assistance. On the Republican side, Massie and others are skeptical of Democratic assistance in saving Johnson, suggesting that it could lead to further divisions within the House GOP conference.
There is a belief among some Republicans that if Democrats were to save Johnson during a vacate vote, it could significantly alter the dynamics within the House GOP conference. The potential quid pro quo involved in Democrats assisting Johnson could complicate his leadership going forward. It remains to be seen how the situation will unfold, as negotiations and discussions continue between Democrats and Republicans. Both Johnson and Jeffries have been contacted for comment regarding the ongoing situation.
