House Democratic leadership announced on Tuesday that they would not support the effort to oust House Speaker Mike Johnson, despite threats from Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and other hardliners. In a statement, the leaders stated that they would vote to table Greene’s Motion to Vacate the Chair, and if she proceeds with the motion, it will not succeed.
Greene, however, indicated that she would move forward with the motion to put members on the record. She emphasized the importance of recorded votes for transparency and accountability in Congress.
Speaker Johnson defended the need for Democratic support to remain in his position, stating that his focus is on doing what is right for the country and ensuring a functioning Congress. He expressed hope for the support of the entire country, regardless of party lines.
House Republicans have indicated that the effort to vacate Johnson’s speakership is “dead,” with Rep. Kat Cammack stating that there has been no movement on the threat. Oklahoma Republican Kevin Hern downplayed the threats, stating that nobody is discussing it.
Greene, who was not present in the Capitol on Monday, has not been seen back on Capitol Hill on Tuesday. Johnson confirmed that he had not discussed the motion to vacate threat with Greene.
The decision by Democratic leaders to support Speaker Johnson was announced after their caucus meeting on Tuesday morning. The ongoing political drama highlights the divisions within Congress and the challenges of maintaining leadership in a polarized environment.