The House of Representatives swiftly voted on Wednesday evening to reject Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene's attempt to remove Speaker Mike Johnson from his leadership position. The resounding vote in Johnson's favor, with support from Democrats, effectively ends the most serious challenge to the Louisiana Republican's speakership, at least for the time being.
Speaker Johnson, facing a narrow majority, now has the opportunity to shift focus to other legislative matters following the failed ouster attempt. However, the support from Democrats may expose him to criticism from within his own party.
Following the vote, Johnson briefly addressed reporters, labeling Greene's campaign against him as 'misguided' and expressing gratitude for the vote of confidence from his colleagues. He emphasized his commitment to fulfilling his duties as Speaker and doing what he believes is right for the House.
Greene had been hinting at challenging the Speaker for weeks, reigniting divisions within the House GOP. Johnson was elected Speaker last year after a tumultuous period that saw the ousting of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
The House voted overwhelmingly to table Greene's motion to remove Johnson, with 359 members voting in favor and 43 against. Eleven Republicans broke ranks and voted against tabling the motion.
House Democratic leadership had announced their support for Johnson, ensuring his retention as Speaker. Greene did not rule out the possibility of another challenge in the future, citing a statement from former President Donald Trump on Truth Social as potential support for a future motion to vacate.
Despite Trump's call to vote against Greene's resolution, she expressed gratitude for his support and hinted at the possibility of another motion to vacate in the future.
House Republicans were taken by surprise when Greene initiated the motion, as GOP leadership believed there was more time for discussions following productive meetings between Johnson and Greene earlier in the week.
The unexpected challenge to Speaker Johnson underscores the ongoing tensions within the House GOP and the delicate balance of power in the chamber.
