Marjorie Taylor Greene files motion to oust Speaker Mike Johnson

Greene hasn't yet begun the vote, but her action sets the stage for a significant confrontation on the House floor.

This morning, Georgia Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene initiated a motion to remove House Speaker Mike Johnson of Bossier, potentially leading to a vote on his ousting.

While Greene hasn't yet begun the vote, her action sets the stage for a significant confrontation on the House floor.

This move reflects the previous ouster of Representative Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) who became the first House speaker to be removed after a motion to vacate was triggered by hardline Republicans last year.

Greene's decision follows her strong opposition to a $1.2 trillion spending bill passed by the House on Friday to prevent a government shutdown. The proposal to remove Speaker Johnson comes with growing discontent among conservatives over his collaboration with primarily Democratic votes on the funding deal.

Although Greene initially supported Johnson's election as speaker in October, she is now among several right-wing members who have grown dissatisfied with his leadership. Earlier on Friday, she hinted at possibly pushing for his removal.

It remains uncertain whether Greene's motion is filed as a "privileged" resolution, requiring immediate consideration on the House floor. If not, Johnson could delay any vote on the matter until after a two-week recess.

Even if a vote on ejecting Johnson were to take place, Greene might face challenges in garnering enough support. 

Representative Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), who previously voted to remove former Speaker McCarthy, expressed confusion and stated he wouldn't back Greene's efforts. Similarly, Representative Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) also signaled her opposition to firing Johnson.

The outcome of the vote hinges on the support from both Democrats and Republicans. If all Democrats vote for Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries as speaker, Johnson can only afford to lose two Republican votes to retain his position.

When asked about Greene's potential move, Speaker Johnson appeared unconcerned. His spokesperson did not provide immediate comment on the matter.

Reflecting on the potential consequences of her action, Greene emphasized the importance of having a plan in place before initiating any removal of Johnson from the speakership, aiming to avoid the chaotic aftermath that followed McCarthy's removal.