House Speaker Mike Johnson‘s recent meeting with former President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago, followed by an election integrity event, hints at a burgeoning alliance aimed at shielding Johnson from a potential ouster led by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene.
The event, which includes a joint news conference, marks Johnson’s first public appearance with Trump since assuming the speakership in October 2023. It’s anticipated that Greene’s threat to remove Johnson will be a topic of discussion during the press briefing.
The focal point of the event is proposed legislation intended to prevent non-citizens from participating in federal elections.
Greene’s move to file a motion to vacate in March was triggered by Johnson’s decision to advance a $1.2 trillion spending package to the House floor, which garnered more Democratic than Republican votes and included numerous earmarks benefitting districts across party lines.
Greene’s discontent extends beyond spending decisions to encompass Johnson’s handling of Ukraine war funding and the reauthorization of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA).
The failure to advance the FISA reauthorization bill on the House floor, following Trump’s call to “kill FISA,” has heightened tensions within the GOP.
While Greene has expressed her expectations for Johnson’s approach to FISA reauthorization, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy remains confident in Johnson’s ability to retain his position.
McCarthy distinguishes Greene’s motion from the one filed by Rep. Matt Gaetz, emphasizing Greene’s focus on policy matters.
Despite Johnson’s attempt to engage with Greene following her motion, her stance on the matter remains unchanged.
Trump’s influence as the presumptive GOP nominee for 2024 may shape the dynamics of the situation, potentially impacting Johnson’s future within the party leadership.
