Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky has called on House Republican leadership to address Speaker Mike Johnson’s voluntary resignation for the betterment of the conference. Massie, along with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene from Georgia, declared their intention to force a vote on Greene’s motion to vacate the position of Speaker in the upcoming week.
In response, House Democrat leaders announced their support for Johnson and their plan to thwart any motion to vacate. Massie and Greene criticized Johnson’s leadership, citing concerns over government funding, domestic surveillance, and Ukraine related issues.
During a press conference, Massie urged his fellow Republicans to reconsider aligning with Democrats and to intervene with Johnson. He challenged the party’s leadership to meet with Johnson and persuade him to step down for the benefit of the country and the party.
Despite inquiries, Majority Leader Steve Scalise, Majority Whip Tom Emmer, Conference Chair Elise Stefanik, and Policy Chair Gary Palmer did not respond to questions regarding their stance on the motion to vacate and Johnson’s resignation.
Massie and Greene accused Democrat leadership of using Johnson to maintain control of the House’s legislative agenda and undermine Republican chances in the upcoming elections. They called for unity among Republican leaders to convince Johnson to leave Congress.
Overall, the call for Johnson’s resignation highlights internal party conflicts and strategic maneuvers within the House of Representatives.
