Donald Trump has taken a proactive role in attempting to resolve the escalating tension between House GOP leader Mike Johnson and Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene. Despite Trump’s efforts, it remains uncertain if he can persuade Greene to withdraw her threat of forcing a vote to oust Johnson from his position.
Trump recently engaged in a lengthy phone call with Greene, urging her to stand down from her motion to vacate against Johnson. Sources familiar with the matter confirm Trump’s intervention, emphasizing his warning to Greene about the potential consequences of her actions.
Publicly, Trump has consistently supported Johnson and discouraged Greene from pursuing the ouster vote. His endorsement of Johnson was reiterated at a recent Republican National Committee event, where he stressed the importance of Republican unity leading up to the November elections.
Trump and Mike Johnson (Credits: The New York Times)
Greene subsequently met with Johnson, along with Representative Thomas Massie, to discuss potential resolutions. Despite the ongoing discussions, Johnson clarified that it’s not a negotiation but rather an opportunity to listen to ideas proposed by Greene and Massie.
Trump’s support for Johnson extends beyond his conversation with Greene; Johnson reported speaking with Trump, who also opposes Greene’s threats to his speakership.
Despite Greene’s defense of her actions, claiming she’s fighting for Trump’s policies, Trump’s backing has provided Johnson with additional support and tempered Greene’s ouster threat, at least temporarily.
However, some Republicans caution Johnson against making concessions to Greene, citing the risk of repeating past mistakes, such as those made by his predecessor, Kevin McCarthy, in 2023. They advise Johnson to be cautious in his dealings with Greene to avoid potential political fallout.
