In a bid to unify a fractured House Republican conference, Donald Trump made a surprise visit to Washington DC on Thursday. However, his approach sparked controversy as he publicly reprimanded his ally, Marjorie Taylor Greene.
Trump Visits House GOP Conference
Donald Trump attempted to bridge divisions within the House Republican conference on Thursday with a visit to Washington DC, where he attended meetings with both House and Senate Republican caucuses.
Humiliating Ally Marjorie Taylor Greene
In typical Trump fashion, he publicly humiliated one of his own allies, Georgia Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene.
Singling Out Greene
During his remarks to Republicans in the lower chamber, Trump singled out the outspoken conservative gadfly. He pointed to Mike Johnson, the Speaker of the House, and asked Greene, “Hello Marjorie… are you being nice to him?” She responded with a hesitant acknowledgment, and Trump advised her to be nicer, to which she nodded.
Praising Speaker Johnson
Separately, Trump praised Johnson, commending his performance in his less than a year as Speaker. Johnson had taken over last fall after a turbulent period of conservative rebellion that ousted Kevin McCarthy, Johnson’s predecessor. Following his removal, McCarthy resigned from the House, ending his brief tenure as Speaker. Greene confirmed the account after the meeting, sharing her interaction with Trump.
Johnson and Greene Clash Over Ukraine Aid
The conflict between Johnson and Greene centers on Ukraine, a divisive issue within their party. Despite opposition from the right wing, Johnson yielded to Senate and Democratic pressure to bring a military aid bill for Ukraine to a vote, passing it in April after months of avoidance.
Greene’s Retaliatory Move
In response to the Ukraine aid vote, Greene filed a motion to vacate Johnson’s speakership. She had warned Johnson as early as January that she would take such action if he allowed the aid to pass.
Failed Ouster Attempt
Greene, joined by two other Republicans, failed in her effort to oust Johnson. Democrats, unwilling to elect one of their own, joined Republicans to protect Johnson, recognizing his concession on Ukraine aid.
Trump’s Arrival Sparks Protests
Protesters greeted Trump as he arrived in Washington to meet his Republican allies. Now under 34 felony convictions, Trump’s influence was recently evident when he pressured Republicans to kill a compromise border security bill.
Reversal of Recent Dynamics
Trump’s visit marks a shift from recent months when Johnson and other Republicans supported him during his Manhattan criminal trial. Trump was found guilty of falsifying business documents related to a hush money scheme from the 2016 election.
Trump Prepares for Nomination
Trump’s visit comes as he prepares to accept the Republican Party’s presidential nomination next month in Milwaukee. He won the primary against Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis, and others with strong support from the Republican base.
