In a recent interview, NewsNation’s Blake Burman spoke with Speaker Mike Johnson about Marjorie Taylor Greene, to which Johnson responded dismissively, saying, “Bless her heart,” and expressing that he didn’t spend much time thinking about her. Despite the Republican Party’s narrow majority in the House and the constant threat of a motion to vacate the chair, Johnson made it clear that Greene would not be allowed to run the place. This move signals a shift in the culture of the MAGAfied Republican Party, as challenging Trump’s dominance no longer automatically results in a destroyed political career.
The question arises as to whether the MAGA movement can maintain the same level of control over the Republican Party when Trump is not directly involved. If figures like Greene, Bannon, Gaetz, and Kirk can wield the same power, then the party’s transformation will be complete, potentially damaging it for a generation. Johnson’s decision to put a vote for Ukraine aid on the floor despite pushback from MAGA supporters shows a defiance against the extreme elements of the party, indicating a potential turning point.
Following the successful passing of Ukraine aid with more Democratic votes than Republican, Johnson faced backlash from Greene and other MAGA supporters. However, actual constituents of Republicans who supported the aid showed little to no negative response. Democrats also came to Johnson’s defense, with the top three House Democrats issuing a statement supporting him and opposing Greene’s motion to vacate. The dynamic within the Republican Party, particularly without Trump actively involved, shows that MAGA’s influence may be more limited than previously believed.
Despite the efforts of figures like Greene to push the Republican Party in the direction of extreme conservatism, recent bipartisan legislation passed by Congress under Biden’s administration demonstrates the potential for healthy government and compromise. In contrast, MAGA views compromise and bipartisan efforts as weaknesses, leading to ongoing political battles such as Greene’s motion to vacate against Johnson. The current political landscape highlights the struggle between traditional Republicans and the MAGA movement in reshaping the party’s identity.
The circus of MAGA personalities surrounding Trump, including Greene, has faced setbacks, such as losses in the 2022 midterm elections and a lack of success in convincing the public of their conspiracy theories. The ongoing battle for control of the Republican Party will intensify in the 2024 election, with the outcome determining the future direction of the conservative movement. The mismatch between Speaker Johnson and Greene suggests that MAGA’s hold on the party may not be as secure as believed, especially without Trump leading the charge.
