Republican Representative Mike Johnson from Louisiana and Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene from Georgia had an extensive meeting on Monday that lasted nearly two hours. This lengthy discussion indicates that the two lawmakers are likely trying to reach a resolution to ease tensions and prevent any further action on Greene’s proposal to remove Johnson from his position of power.
Both individuals exited the Speaker’s office at different times, but with a shared message: the conversation had been productive enough to warrant a follow-up meeting. Greene, addressing reporters, confirmed that the gathering would be held on Tuesday at 12:30 p.m.
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Greene did not disclose whether she was prepared to proceed with her motion to vacate resolution. However, she indicated that she is seeking certain assurances from the Speaker. She wants him to demonstrate a stronger commitment to conservative policy priorities during negotiations with Democrats, as this is the central concern both behind her criticisms and her efforts to remove him from his position.
“I have remained patient, diligent, steady, and focused on the facts. And I continue to uphold those values,” Greene emphasized during her post-meeting discussion with reporters. She was joined by Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), another advocate for her resolution.
“I recently had a lengthy conversation with the Speaker in his office, discussing strategies to advance our goals with a Republican-controlled House of Representatives. We plan to continue our dialogue tomorrow, building upon the insights gained from today’s discussion.”
Last week, the Georgia Republican firmly stated her intention to initiate a vote for Johnson’s removal this week, emphasizing the significance of making her conservative colleagues publicly declare their support or opposition to the Speaker. However, her recent comments indicate a change in direction.
“I will be calling this motion to vacate next week,” Greene confidently announced during a press conference, standing alongside Massie, one of the two Republicans supporting her endeavor. “There is no doubt about it.”
“If the vote doesn’t pass and the entire conference, the entire Congress, supports the uniparty, I want to make one thing clear – it’s not a failure, it’s a victory for the American people. It’s a list of names that they deserve,” Greene later emphasized.
The Georgia Republican, however, reached out and requested a meeting with Johnson on Monday. She also expressed her willingness to meet with him again on Tuesday, indicating that she is open to finding a resolution and potentially stepping back from her previous threat to vacate.
After the meeting, Johnson took a moment to speak with reporters. He acknowledged that he understands the concerns raised by his critics regarding his policies. However, he emphasized that there are limitations to implementing these policies in a government where the Senate and White House are controlled by Democrats.
“I completely empathize with the frustration that many people feel, and I am equally frustrated. Every day, I strive to make progress on our conservative policy agenda,” expressed Johnson. “However, it’s important to acknowledge that we are currently facing the challenge of having the slimmest majority in U.S. history, with only a one-vote margin. This reality makes it exceedingly difficult, much like in football, to score a touchdown on every single play.”
“We have a commitment to keeping this team intact and focused on serving the needs of the American people.”
For over a month, Greene has held Johnson hostage with her removal resolution, which she filed earlier.
The Georgia Republican has been strongly criticizing Johnson for making several legislative agreements with Democrats. These agreements include funding the government, reauthorizing the U.S.’s warrantless surveillance powers, and providing a foreign aid package with billions of dollars for Ukraine.
