House Speaker Mike Johnson is scheduled to meet privately with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene amid speculation that she may motion to remove him from his post. Over a month ago, Greene filed a motion to vacate accusing Johnson of betraying the House GOP Conference by passing a bipartisan funding bill. The resolution earned two co-sponsors, Reps. Thomas Massie and Paul Gosar, after a $61 billion aid package for Ukraine was passed. Greene announced plans to trigger the motion this week, claiming that the House needs leaders who will get things done and not adhere to Washington practices.
Johnson has condemned Greene’s motion, stating that it is wrong for the Republican Conference, the institution, and the country. Greene has dismissed claims that her push may result in chaos for congressional Republicans, arguing that if Johnson remains as Speaker, the party may lose the majority in the upcoming election. She also denied defying former President Trump, who previously supported Johnson. Greene’s attempt to oust Johnson has not gained much support within the House GOP, with even Johnson’s critics showing little interest in going through another period of chaos like the one that followed the removal of ex-Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
The Republican Main Street Caucus, including Rep. Dan Crenshaw, expressed their opposition to Greene’s motion to vacate by stating that it is a last-ditch effort to gain attention. Crenshaw believes there is a large and strong majority that will likely table the motion, as there is little support for Greene and Massie’s efforts. Crenshaw criticized the move, stating that it undermines the democratic process and makes it difficult to negotiate with the slim majority that Republicans have. He emphasized the need for voters to not fall for such political games and manipulative tactics.
Green called Johnson’s foreign aid package his “3rd betrayal” of the American people and accused him of bringing bills to the floor that were not in the national interest. Crenshaw countered this claim, stating that Johnson’s actions were necessary for national security and had the support of the majority of members. He criticized Greene and Massie for undermining the democratic process and punishing the Speaker for simply allowing bills to proceed based on the will of members. Crenshaw emphasized the need for unity within the Republican Party and warned against falling for divisive tactics that only serve to disrupt the party’s effectiveness.
Overall, the conflict between Greene and Johnson highlights the internal divisions within the Republican Party. Greene’s motion to remove Johnson as Speaker has not gained widespread support, with many Republicans criticizing her actions as disruptive and damaging to the party. Crenshaw and other members have expressed opposition to Greene’s efforts, emphasizing the need for unity and cooperation within the party. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the Republican Party will address these internal divisions and move forward towards the upcoming election.
