In recent developments, House Speaker Mike Johnson is facing calls for his removal from the top post after conservative Republicans expressed dissatisfaction with his handling of foreign aid legislation. Two GOP representatives, Thomas Massie and Marjorie Taylor Greene, have publicly announced their support for a motion to vacate the position.
Johnson's proposed plan for foreign aid to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan has sparked controversy among hardline conservatives who believe that border security provisions should take priority. The speaker has bypassed the Rules Committee in an attempt to get critical legislation to the floor, which has further fueled frustration.
Massie's announcement of his intention to co-sponsor a resolution to remove Johnson as speaker puts Johnson's job in jeopardy, especially since Republicans control the House with a razor-thin majority. The motion would require all Democrats joining Republicans in the vote to succeed.
Johnson, however, has shown no signs of resigning and remains defiant. He described himself as a 'wartime speaker' during a news conference and dismissed threats to his speakership as 'absurd.'
The foreign aid package includes assistance for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. The controversy comes at a time when Johnson is also dealing with opposition over his handling of other issues such as government funding packages and the FISA spying tool.
It remains to be seen whether Democrats will come to Johnson's rescue or if they will allow him to face right-wing fury. Some Democrats, like Rep. Jared Moskowitz, have already expressed their opposition to a motion to vacate.
