GOP Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia has intensified her efforts to potentially oust House Speaker Mike Johnson by issuing a scathing letter to her Republican colleagues. In the letter, Greene accuses Johnson of failing to deliver on promises, breaking legislative rules, and jeopardizing the House Republican majority. She has not specified when she plans to force a floor vote on Johnson's removal but is actively seeking support from fellow GOP members.
Johnson, on the other hand, has attempted to downplay the situation, emphasizing his respect for Greene and expressing willingness to engage in dialogue. Despite plans to connect last week, a meeting between the two did not materialize. Greene's detailed case against Johnson includes criticism of his leadership style and strategic decisions.
Greene has also warned against Johnson's expected initiatives, such as providing more aid to Ukraine and reauthorizing a law allowing warrantless surveillance of foreign nationals. While Greene claims to have received support from GOP colleagues in response to her letter, not all Republicans are in favor of removing Johnson from the speakership.
Concerns have been raised about the potential consequences of ousting Johnson, with some fearing a return to the chaos that followed the removal of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy last year. Johnson has cautioned against triggering a vote, stating that it would not serve the party's interests in expanding their majority.
As the House returns from recess, Greene's motion to unseat Johnson remains symbolic, with no immediate timeline for an actual vote. Despite opposition from some colleagues who seek to avoid further disruptions, Greene remains steadfast in her efforts to hold Johnson accountable for what she perceives as detrimental actions to the Republican Party.
In her letter, Greene refutes the argument that removing Johnson would benefit Democrats, asserting that a new Republican Speaker would not automatically shift the majority. She also alludes to a conversation with former President Donald Trump, hinting at his potential support for her cause.
