Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., announced plans on Wednesday to initiate a vote next week aimed at removing Speaker Mike Johnson from his position, challenging both Democrats and Johnson’s fellow Republicans to defend his leadership.
Standing outside the Capitol wearing a red “MAGA” hat, Greene accused Johnson of betraying conservative values by supporting government funding bills, passing Ukraine aid, and reauthorizing the FISA surveillance program without new warrant requirements.
“I will be calling this motion to vacate next week without a doubt,” Greene declared at a press conference. “I look forward to seeing Democrats support a Republican speaker and face their constituents in upcoming primaries.”
Greene’s move follows a statement from Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Democratic leaders pledging to protect Johnson by voting to “table” Greene’s motion, citing a need for bipartisan cooperation.
Johnson swiftly responded to Greene’s announcement with a brief statement, denouncing the motion as detrimental to the Republican Conference and the country.
Despite Greene’s persistence, her efforts lack significant support, with only two co-sponsors for her resolution, even among Johnson’s conservative critics.
Greene has been vocal in her opposition to Johnson’s leadership for months, particularly regarding emergency foreign aid for Ukraine amid ongoing border issues. However, Johnson successfully pushed through a national security package, including aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, which was signed into law by President Joe Biden.
Greene labeled Johnson as part of the “uniparty,” a term used by hard-right Republicans to criticize those who collaborate with Democrats on bipartisan measures. She criticized Democrats for endorsing Johnson and accused him of catering to their demands.
Greene’s attempt to remove Johnson faces resistance from Democrats and some Republicans, undermining her efforts while providing her with political ammunition against the speaker and his allies.
Reps. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., and Paul Gosar, R-Ariz., have joined Greene’s motion. Massie defended Greene, asserting her seriousness as a lawmaker.
When asked about potential replacements for Johnson, Greene declined to name specific individuals but emphasized the importance of fighting for the Republican agenda and resisting sharing power with Hakeem Jeffries.
