Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) has openly questioned the integrity of Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), suggesting that his recent policy decisions might be the result of being blackmailed.
This line of reasoning highlights her deep concerns about Johnson’s leadership and his apparent departure from core Republican values, especially regarding the situation in Ukraine.
Allegations of Blackmail
During a revealing discussion on “Tucker Carlson Uncensored,” Greene expressed her bewilderment at Johnson’s policy shifts since taking up the Speakership. “Mike Johnson has made a complete departure of who he is and what he stands for.
And to the point where people are literally asking — is he being blackmailed? What is wrong with him? Because he’s completely disconnected with what we want,” Greene articulated, echoing a sentiment of disillusionment with Johnson’s recent actions.
Skepticism Over Ukraine Aid
Greene’s criticism stems from Johnson’s changing stance on providing aid to Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. The Speaker has advocated for supporting Ukraine, a position that has caused friction within the GOP, many of whom lean toward isolationism and others who are more willing to lend aid or loans to the struggling nation.
Greene sees Johnson’s new push for Ukraine aid as a deviation from party principles, leading her to question his motivations and integrity.
Specifics of Ukraine Aid Legislation Yet to Be Revealed
In February, Speaker Mike Johnson declined to advance a foreign aid bill approved by the Senate, which proposed $60 billion in assistance for Ukraine, citing the omission of border security provisions as his reason. Previously, a related border security agreement meant to accompany the aid bill was dismissed by conservative members.
Innovations Potentially Proposed in Johnson’s Aid Package
Johnson mentioned that the forthcoming foreign aid proposal from the House would introduce significant innovations, though he left many wondering about the bill’s precise contents. Some likely proposals include loans to Ukraine rather than direct aid and seizing Russian assets held in the United States to allocate to Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
Republicans Left In Dark As To Proposals in Forthcoming Bill
Green stated that most Republicans, from the lowest rank-and-file Member to the House Leadership, have been left in the dark about the contents of the Ukraine foreign aid bill. It is expected that this legislation will be fleshed out to the Caucus in the coming weeks.
Motion to Remove Johnson
In response to her concerns, Greene introduced a motion last month aiming to strip Johnson of his Speakership. This dramatic step was seen as a direct challenge to Johnson’s leadership, particularly his efforts to bring Ukraine aid legislation to the floor, which has been a contentious issue among Republicans.
Policy Shifts Raise Eyebrows
Beyond Ukraine, Greene criticized Johnson for altering his stance on several other key issues, including border security and social policies.
Aid for Ukraine on the Agenda
Despite the controversy, Johnson has signaled his intention to proceed with a package that includes aid for Ukraine. This move comes after prolonged delays due to disagreements within the party. The aid package is seen as critical support for Ukraine as it continues to defend itself against Russian aggression.
Addressing Conservative Concerns
Johnson is exploring innovative solutions to address conservative apprehensions about the national debt, including proposing a loan to Ukraine. This approach aims to provide the necessary support without exacerbating the United States’ fiscal situation, leveraging assets seized from Russia to aid Ukraine.
Tensions Come to Light
The discord between Greene and Johnson was not always apparent. However, the tension between them surfaced publicly following Greene’s motion to vacate the Speakership, highlighting the growing divide within the Republican Party over strategic and policy directions.
Bipartisan Spending Bill Sparks Controversy
The catalyst for Greene’s motion was Johnson’s involvement in passing a significant spending bill aimed at preventing a government shutdown. The bill, which garnered bipartisan support, was criticized by conservative members for its spending levels and lack of stringent policy measures, leading to further scrutiny of Johnson’s leadership.
Johnson’s Leadership Under Scrutiny
Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.) has suggested that Johnson’s push for Ukraine aid could potentially cost him his leadership position, emphasizing the divisive nature of the issue within the GOP. This sentiment reflects the broader challenges Johnson faces in navigating the complex dynamics of his party.
Democratic Support Possible
Some Democrats have hinted at the possibility of supporting Johnson against any attempts to remove him from the Speakership, depending on how he manages the Ukraine aid situation. This potential cross-party support underscores the complexity of the political landscape Johnson navigates.
A Forthcoming Conversation
Greene has indicated her intention to speak directly with Johnson about her concerns, signaling an important upcoming dialogue between the two. This conversation could be pivotal in addressing the rift within the party and clarifying Johnson’s positions on the issues Greene has raised.
Johnson’s Office Silent
As these events unfold, Johnson’s office has yet to publicly respond to Greene’s accusations and the speculation surrounding his leadership. The silence adds an element of uncertainty to the ongoing debate within the GOP over its direction and priorities.
Greene’s Stand
As the situation develops, Greene remains a vocal critic of Johnson, positioning herself as a defender of traditional Republican principles. As Johnson’s Ukraine proposal hits the House Floor in the coming weeks, Greene and her conservative cohort will have to decide how to hold their leader accountable.
