Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) is intensifying her campaign to oust Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), but faces substantial hurdles in her bid for power. Despite receiving commendation from former President Trump, a key figure in the GOP, Johnson enjoys Democratic support, making a conservative coup unlikely.
Many within the Republican Party, while critical of Johnson’s bipartisan approach, are reluctant to back Greene’s push for his removal.
Greene’s call for Johnson’s resignation or removal stems from his willingness to collaborate with President Biden on major legislative matters, such as federal spending, surveillance policies, and military aid to Ukraine—stances that have alienated hardline conservatives.
Marjorie Taylor Greene (Credits: NBC News)
However, the broader GOP sentiment favors Johnson’s retention, as a majority see him as the best option in the middle of lack of viable successors and the looming midterm elections.
While Greene’s vacate resolution garnered support from a few Republicans, including Reps. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.), most conservatives are cautious about destabilizing party leadership.
Even Johnson’s brief consideration of altering House rules to safeguard his position did not boost Greene’s momentum. The support for her resolution has not expanded beyond three lawmakers, further diminishing its prospects.
Concerns about the potential fallout from Johnson’s removal have tempered enthusiasm for Greene’s initiative. Many fear that such a move could benefit Democrats, prompting some Republicans to distance themselves from Greene’s efforts. Additionally, Trump’s recent endorsement of Johnson at Mar-a-Lago underscores the uphill battle facing Greene.
Mike Johnson (Credits: The New Republic)
Despite these challenges, Greene remains resolute in her criticisms of Johnson, echoing the grievances of GOP voters who feel let down by his perceived departure from Trump’s agenda.
However, her campaign has sparked pushback from moderate Republicans who view Johnson’s leadership favorably and reject Greene’s attempt to impose her will on the party.
As the internal divisions within the GOP persist, Johnson’s fate hangs in the balance, with the outcome likely to shape the party’s trajectory leading up to the midterm elections.
