Republican Representative Mike Johnson from Louisiana and Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene from Georgia had an extensive meeting on Monday that lasted nearly two hours. This lengthy meeting implies that both representatives are attempting to find a resolution to ease tensions and prevent any further action on Greene’s resolution to remove Johnson from his position of power.
After their separate meetings with the Speaker, both individuals emerged with a common message – the discussion was productive enough to warrant another meeting. Greene informed the press that the follow-up session is scheduled for Tuesday at 12:30 p.m.
Greene did not disclose whether she intends to proceed with her motion to vacate resolution. However, she hinted that she is seeking reassurances from the Speaker regarding his commitment to champion conservative policy priorities during negotiations with Democrats. This concern lies at the core of her criticisms and her current efforts to remove him from his position.
“I have remained patient, diligent, steady, and focused on the facts. And those aspects have not changed,” stated Greene, as she addressed reporters following the meeting. She was accompanied by Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), who also supported her resolution.
“I just had a lengthy conversation with the Speaker in his office regarding potential strategies for advancing the agenda in a Republican-controlled House of Representatives. We are scheduled to speak with him again tomorrow, building upon the insights gained from our discussion today.”
In a significant shift from her previous stance, the Georgia Republican has now expressed a different view regarding the Speaker’s ouster. Last week, she was resolute in her determination to initiate a vote on Johnson’s removal this week, emphasizing the need to hold her conservative colleagues accountable for their support of the Speaker.
“I will be calling this motion to vacate next week,” Greene confidently announced during a press conference, standing alongside Massie, a fellow Republican who also supports her initiative. “I am absolutely committed to moving forward with this.”
“If this vote does not succeed and the entire conference, along with the entire Congress, backs the uniparty, let me tell you something, it’s not a failure, it’s a victory for the American people. It’s a list of names,” Greene later emphasized. “They deserve to be held accountable.”
However, the Georgia Republican reached out to Johnson and requested a meeting on Monday. She also indicated that she would be meeting with him again on Tuesday. This suggests that she is considering an alternative approach and may be stepping back from her previous threat to vacate.
Johnson also took a moment to speak with reporters after the meeting. He acknowledged the policy concerns of his critics but emphasized that there are limitations to advancing these concerns in a government where Democrats hold control over the Senate and White House.
Johnson expressed his understanding and shared the frustration of many. He emphasized his desire to push forward conservative policies consistently. However, he acknowledged the challenges posed by the narrowest majority in US history, with just a one-vote margin. Using a football metaphor, he explained that it is difficult to score a touchdown on every play under such circumstances.
“We will continue to maintain this team and ensure that they work diligently for the benefit of the American people.”
Over a month ago, Greene submitted her removal resolution and has been using it as leverage against Johnson ever since.
The Georgia Republican has relentlessly criticized Johnson for making several legislative agreements with Democrats. These deals include funding the government, reauthorizing warrantless surveillance powers in the U.S., and approving a foreign aid package that allocated billions of dollars for Ukraine.
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