Staff Reports
House Democratic leaders have released a statement declaring their commitment to saving Speaker Mike Johnson from a potential motion to vacate brought by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. This marks the first time Democrats have firmly decided how they would respond to efforts to remove the speaker.
The minority leader, Hakeem Jeffries, and other House Democratic leaders stated that it is time to “turn the page on this chapter of pro-Putin Republican obstruction.” They emphasized this stance following the recent passage of a foreign aid package, which was seen as a setback for Johnson. Greene criticized the speaker, calling him a “lame duck” and his actions a “betrayal.”
In their statement, Democratic leaders affirmed that they would vote to table Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s motion to vacate the chair. They expressed confidence that the motion would not succeed if invoked by Greene.
Johnson, however, clarified that he did not solicit assistance from anyone and was not focused on the Democrats’ decision to save him. He stated that he had not been aware of their statement until reporters inquired about it during a GOP leadership press conference.
Addressing the motion to vacate, Johnson emphasized the need for a functioning Congress that can work together without hindering its ability to address the country’s problems. He dismissed the motion, stating that “no one can afford that” and stressed the importance of doing what he believes to be the right thing for the country.
Despite previous concerns about Johnson’s position, it appears less likely that he is in danger of being ousted by Greene and the hardline Republicans. Several Republican representatives, including Kat Cammack, expressed that there is not enough support within the conference to pursue such a drastic action. Another representative, Chip Roy, emphasized the need for Republicans to unite and focus on maintaining the majority in the upcoming elections.
Overall, the Democrats’ pledge to protect Speaker Mike Johnson from a motion to vacate represents a pivotal development in the ongoing political dynamics within the House of Representatives.
