Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene proposed a vote Wednesday to remove Speaker Mike Johnson, but members swiftly quashed her attempt.
One of the most ardent congressional supporters of Donald Trump, Greene rose on the House floor and delivered a lengthy list of alleged “transgressions” by Johnson while serving as speaker.
Fellow Republicans booed.
Greene’s bid to oust the Speaker found an unlikely ally in the form of the Democratic leadership. Recognizing the potential for further chaos and gridlock, the Democrats, led by Representative Hakeem Jeffries, signaled their intention to vote against Greene’s resolution, effectively ensuring Johnson’s survival in the Speaker’s chair.
Read: Georgia Rep. MTG Delivers Demands To Johnson Yet Appears To Back Away As Trump Sides With Speaker
Tensions came to a head when Greene publicly vowed to call for a vote to oust Speaker Johnson, accusing him of various “transgressions” in his leadership. This threat came in the wake of Johnson’s decision to support a foreign aid package that included funds for Ukraine, a move that drew the ire of Greene and her staunch ally, former President Donald Trump.
In response, Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, has remained steadfast, asserting his belief that it was crucial for the United States to stand with Ukraine against Russia’s invasion. Undeterred by Greene’s ultimatum, Johnson has continued to lead the House, even as he engaged in a series of meetings with the Georgia Congresswoman in an attempt to find a resolution.
Throughout this tumultuous episode, the specter of Donald Trump loomed large. As the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, Trump’s endorsement of Johnson carried significant weight, providing the Speaker with a crucial lifeline in his battle against Greene’s insurgency.
Read: House Dems Vow To Tank Georgia Rep. MTG’s Bid To Oust Republican Speaker Mike Johnson
Adding another layer to this complex narrative, the Republican National Committee (RNC), under the leadership of Trump’s hand-picked chair, urged House Republicans to refrain from supporting Greene’s motion. This call for unity underscored the RNC’s desire to project a united front as the 2024 presidential election loomed on the horizon.
While Greene’s bid to unseat the Speaker appeared to have been thwarted, at least temporarily, the repercussions of her actions reverberated throughout the political landscape. Questions arose about the long-term viability of Johnson’s speakership, as well as the potential for future challenges from the emboldened fringe elements within the Republican party.
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