Representative Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) held a lengthy meeting on Monday, indicating that they are actively working towards resolving their differences and avoiding any potential floor action regarding Greene’s resolution to remove Johnson from his position.
The Speaker’s office saw both individuals exiting separately, but they conveyed a unified message: the discussion had been productive enough that they had agreed to reconvene on Tuesday. Greene further informed the press that the subsequent meeting was scheduled for 12:30 p.m.
Greene did not disclose whether she would proceed with her plan to bring her motion to vacate resolution to the floor. However, she hinted that she is seeking certain assurances from the Speaker. These assurances would involve the Speaker fighting more vigorously for conservative policy priorities during negotiations with Democrats. This particular issue lies at the core of both Greene’s criticisms and her efforts to remove him from his position.
After the meeting, Greene, accompanied by Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), a fellow advocate of her resolution, addressed reporters and expressed her unwavering commitment to patience, diligence, steadiness, and factual accuracy. “I have remained steadfast in these principles, and my dedication remains unwavering,” she stated.
I recently had a lengthy conversation with the Speaker in his office regarding strategies to advance the goals of a Republican-controlled House of Representatives. We will continue our dialogue with him tomorrow, building upon the insights we gained from today’s discussion.
In a surprising shift, the Georgia Republican has changed her stance on the matter. Last week, she was resolute in her determination to push for a vote on Johnson’s removal this week, emphasizing the need to hold her conservative colleagues accountable for their support of the Speaker.
During a press conference, Greene confidently announced that she will be moving forward with the motion to vacate next week. She made this declaration alongside Massie, who is one of the two Republicans supporting her in this endeavor. Greene emphasized her firm commitment to follow through with the motion.
“If the vote does not succeed and the entire conference, as well as the entire Congress, backs the uniparty, it’s not a failure. It’s actually a victory for the American people because it provides us with a definitive list of names,” Greene remarked. “Those individuals on the list truly deserve to be recognized.”
The Georgia Republican reached out to Johnson and scheduled a meeting for Monday, showing her willingness to find a solution and indicating that she may be considering stepping back from her previous threat to vacate. Additionally, she expressed her intention to meet with him again on Tuesday.
Johnson also took a moment to speak with reporters after the meeting. He acknowledged that he understands the policy concerns expressed by his critics but stressed the challenges of advancing those concerns in a government where Democrats hold control of the Senate and the White House.
“I completely understand and share the frustration,” Johnson expressed. “Every day, I strive to push forward our conservative policy agenda. However, we must acknowledge the challenging reality of working with the smallest majority in U.S. history, with just a one-vote margin. It’s like playing football and expecting to throw touchdown passes on every single play.”
“We will maintain this team’s unity and dedication to serving the American people.”
Greene submitted her removal resolution over a month ago and has been holding it over Johnson’s head ever since.
The Georgia Republican has criticized Johnson for making several legislative deals with Democrats. These deals include funding the government, reauthorizing the U.S.’s warrantless surveillance powers, and passing a foreign aid package that allocated billions of dollars for Ukraine.
