Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene met with House Speaker Mike Johnson to discuss her threat of forcing a vote that could end his speakership. Greene expressed dissatisfaction with Johnson’s reliance on Democrats to pass a spending bill, criticizing his leadership and warning him that further actions could jeopardize his position. Despite the passionate meeting, Greene did not reach a deal with Johnson and has not set a timeline for forcing a vote.
While Greene has not specified when she might proceed with a vote, there is little interest among Republicans in removing another leader so soon after the ousting of former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Greene’s efforts have been met with skepticism and criticism from fellow Republicans, who question who would succeed Johnson as speaker if he were removed. The potential chaos in the House resulting from a leadership change has raised concerns among party members.
During the meeting, Greene did not establish a red line for her actions, but expressed her concerns about Ukraine funding and the reauthorization of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). Johnson suggested a “kitchen Cabinet group” to advise him and invited Greene to join, but she declined, indicating that he does not currently have her support. Greene’s threat to force a vote has been viewed as a mistake and an absurdity by some Republicans, who are wary of the consequences of another leadership shakeup.
Johnson acknowledged the potential chaos that could result from Greene’s efforts to remove him from his position as speaker. The lack of unity among Republicans and uncertainty about a successor have created doubts about the feasibility of Greene’s plan. Other party members have expressed opposition to supporting any motion to vacate Johnson, emphasizing the challenges of managing the House caucus and the potential disruptions that could arise from a leadership change.
Overall, Greene’s meeting with Johnson did not result in a resolution to the conflict over his speakership. The lack of a clear timeline and support from other Republicans poses obstacles to Greene’s efforts to force a vote. While Greene remains critical of Johnson’s leadership and actions, it remains uncertain whether she will follow through with her threat and what the implications would be for the House and the Republican Party.
