House Speaker Mike Johnson, a product of the ultra-right coalition within the Republican Party, is facing a potential ouster by conservative member Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. Greene filed a motion to vacate Johnson’s speakership after he worked with Democrats to pass a $1.2 trillion bill to fund the government, angering many Republicans. Despite growing criticism from Greene and others, Johnson could potentially be saved by House Democrats if he delivers on bipartisan priorities like Ukraine aid. Some Republicans, including Rep. Matt Gaetz, have called for Johnson’s removal, but so far, no other Republicans have publicly supported ousting him. However, with a narrow majority in the House, only a few dissenting Republicans could lead to Johnson’s removal if all Democrats support it.
If Johnson is ousted, it’s uncertain who his successor would be, as seen when former Speaker Kevin McCarthy was removed, causing chaos and infighting within the GOP. The potential for another tumultuous speaker fight could expose further divisions within the party as the 2024 elections approach. Some Democrats are watching the situation closely, hoping to capitalize on Republican disarray on the campaign trail. Johnson has acknowledged the frustration within the party but stressed the need for unity to maintain the Republican majority in the House and regain control of the Senate and White House. However, Johnson’s willingness to work with Democrats on key legislation may ultimately determine his fate in the face of growing backlash from the party’s far-right faction.
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