Attempt to Strip House Speaker Mike Johnson of His Position Thwarted
By Joseph Lord, Epoch Times
On May 8, the House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly against a proposal by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) to remove House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) from his position.
Greene's Attempt to Force a Vote
After two meetings with the speaker to discuss her grievances and demands, Rep. Greene forced a vote on a motion to vacate. House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) then proposed a measure to table Ms. Greene's motion. The proposal was approved by a 359 to 43 vote, with both Democrats and Republicans voting in favor of tabling the motion. However, 11 Republicans voted to proceed with the attempt to remove the speaker.
Support for Speaker Johnson
Earlier, Democratic leaders in the House had promised to support Mr. Johnson against Ms. Greene's removal vote, acknowledging his contribution in passing a $95 billion foreign aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and the Indo-Pacific.
Greene's Grievances
During what was supposed to be the final vote of the week, Ms. Greene voiced a series of complaints against Mr. Johnson on the House floor. Her resolution was met with a loud "boo" from the members present. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), one of two Republicans who openly supported the measure, accompanied her.
Johnson's Response
Mr. Johnson has previously criticized Ms. Greene's attempt to remove him, describing it as a "dangerous gambit." He stated, "I think it's wrong for the Republican Party. I think it's wrong for the institution."
Allegations Against Johnson
Ms. Greene alleged a series of conservative failures by Mr. Johnson on the House floor, accusing him of "aiding and abetting the Biden administration in destroying our country." She pointed to his decision to allow a vote on a motion to expel Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) from the lower chamber, the first such instance in U.S. history prior to a conviction for a crime. She also criticized his decision to pass a 1,000-page, $1.2 trillion government funding package after giving lawmakers less than 48 hours to review it, as required by internal rules.
Additional Grievances
Ms. Greene also criticized Mr. Johnson's decision to pass billions in foreign aid for Ukraine without any demands on border security, effectively giving up any leverage Republicans had over the issue. She also pointed out Mr. Johnson's crucial vote to eliminate a warrant requirement for the reauthorization of a controversial surveillance power.
More Details in Full Report
For more information, see the full report at Epoch Times.
By Tyler Durden, Wed, 05/08/2024 - 19:20
Closing Thoughts
This event highlights the ongoing political tensions within the House of Representatives. It raises questions about the nature of party unity, the role of the Speaker, and the power dynamics within the House. What are your thoughts on this matter? Do share this article with your friends and engage in a meaningful discussion. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.
