Fox News host Maria Bartiromo confronted Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene’s attempt to oust House Speaker Mike Johnson, causing a stir amid the 2024 election. Greene, a Georgia Republican, announced her plan to call a vote on her motion to vacate Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, last week. This move sparked criticism from GOP members who warned it could harm the party. However, in a 359-43 vote on Wednesday, Democrats and Republicans joined forces to defeat the motion.
Greene introduced the motion in March after Johnson supported a $1.2 trillion spending package with Democratic backing to fund the government. As a strong supporter of former President Donald Trump, Greene has been critical of Johnson’s bipartisan approach, including aid to Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. Johnson faced backlash from House conservatives for his role in passing the spending bill.
During an interview on Fox News, Bartiromo questioned Greene about the timing of her efforts to remove Johnson, especially with the 2024 presidential election approaching. Greene mentioned speaking with Trump, who advised against the move at this time but left the possibility open for the future. Trump expressed support for Greene but emphasized the need for Republican unity against the Democrats.
Despite facing criticism from fellow Republicans like Senator Ted Cruz and Representative Dusty Johnson, Greene remains steadfast in her mission to remove Johnson. She has dismissed her critics and defended her actions, citing Johnson’s shift from conservative values. Johnson, on the other hand, called the motion a “misguided effort” and hoped it would mark the end of divisive politics. The ongoing clash within the GOP highlights the internal struggles as the party prepares for the upcoming election.