Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) has positioned herself at the forefront of the possibility of further upheaval within the Republican Party. Her staunch opposition to a deal brokered by newly elected House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA), which includes funding for Ukraine, has sparked fresh controversy. Greene’s position is emblematic of the ongoing division within the GOP, with America First conservatives repeatedly clashing with the neocon Republican establishment since narrowly winning control of the House in the 2022 midterm elections.
Greene’s threat to oust Speaker Johnson if he proceeds with the Ukraine funding deal is not empty rhetoric. She expressed her willingness to “introduce the motion to vacate myself.”
The deal in question, which Johnson discussed with Joe Biden and other Democratic congressional leaders, aims to address the prolonged stalemate over border security and military assistance to Ukraine and Israel. Even though Johnson emphasized the urgency of the Biden administration’s open borders crisis, he dismissed the possibility of striking an agreement that would attempt comprehensive measures to address the situation unfolding at the southern border.
Meanwhile, conservative Republicans in the Senate have expressed dismay about yet another compromise against the mandate given by voters, pointing out that the current legislation presents a significant opportunity to obtain meaningful concessions on true border security from Democrats.
MTG: “I told Speaker Johnson if he made that deal in exchange for $60 billion for Ukraine, I would vacate the chair, and I still stand by those words.”
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) January 15, 2024
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) underlined the limited nature of the situation, stating, “This is a unique opportunity to accomplish something in divided government that wouldn’t be there under unified government.” Despite such endorsements, staunch conservatives like Greene argue for a refusal to fund the government until the border crisis is adequately addressed.
Greene’s stance reflects a broader sentiment among some Republicans, who are increasingly frustrated with their party’s leadership. This sentiment has been further fueled by Johnson’s perceived shift from his earlier opposition to supporting Ukraine before becoming Speaker. The division within the party is not just about policy but also about the approach to governance and negotiation.
The potential implications of Greene’s threat are substantial. If she follows through, it could lead to another leadership shake-up in the House, reminiscent of the ousting last year of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA). This internal conflict is critical for the GOP as they navigate a complex political landscape marked by internal divisions and external pressures with the crucial general election in November rapidly approaching.
