Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) has been vocal about protecting Donald Trump from what he calls politically motivated legal attacks, but pressure is mounting from Trump’s supporters who want to see more than just words.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) has emerged as Johnson’s strongest critic, pointing out that he has not taken meaningful action to support Trump despite his tough talk. Greene has called on Johnson to use his power as Speaker of the House to defund Special Counsel Jack Smith, who is leading investigations against Trump.
While Johnson has traveled to New York to show support for Trump and criticize the legal actions against him, Greene sees his efforts as empty gestures. She has introduced legislation to end Smith’s investigation and has criticized Johnson for not taking decisive action.
Despite Trump’s support for defunding Smith, Johnson has refused to use his power to do so, even after surviving a vote to remove him as Speaker of the House. Greene and other conservatives have accused Johnson of caving to Democratic leaders and failing to support Trump.
Johnson has faced criticism for funding Biden’s policies, passing controversial surveillance legislation, and not standing up for Republican priorities. Despite some symbolic actions against Democratic leaders, Johnson has not taken concrete steps to rein in Smith’s investigations.
As the year progresses, Johnson’s opportunities to take meaningful action against Smith are dwindling. Trump’s stance on Johnson is unclear, but Greene and other Trump allies are calling for more action and less talk from the Speaker.
In the end, Greene emphasizes that Johnson’s actions speak louder than his words, and she and others will continue to push for real action to support Trump.
