Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has issued a warning to Speaker Mike Johnson about moving ahead with an aid package for Ukraine, stating that it would be one of the most egregious things he could do. She expressed that GOP voters are furious with Johnson over recent deal-cutting and suggested that she would not accept any package that included more funding for Ukraine, even if it had some border security provisions. Greene emphasized that moving any Ukraine bill with significant Democratic support under a process known as “suspension of the rules” would anger constituents even more.
Greene’s comments highlight the power of individual members in Johnson’s razor-thin GOP majority, where any single lawmaker can force a vote seeking his ouster. This comes at a critical time as Ukraine is in need of US support and Johnson is trying to work out a new House plan amidst deep divisions within the GOP on the issue. Johnson may find support from Democrats who want Ukraine aid to help him keep his job, but there is a risk of turning off Democrats and angering hardliners like Greene who oppose additional funding for the conflict with Russia.
Despite warnings from conservative members, Greene remains determined to seek Johnson’s ouster and has not been swayed by the possibility of electing a more moderate speaker. She believes that Johnson is already too far left and has compared him to Democrats like Hakeem Jeffries. Greene has also targeted other members, including Rep. Bob Good, with whom she has had disagreements. She plans to campaign against Good in his upcoming primary and believes her support will continue to grow.
Johnson has tried to ease tensions and address Greene’s concerns, acknowledging her frustrations with the process. However, he faces challenges in balancing the demands of both Democrats and Republicans in crafting a Ukraine aid package. Greene has criticized Johnson’s involvement in finalizing the government funding bill and the quick turnaround in putting it on the floor for a vote. She believes that voters are fed up with politicians who do not uphold their conservative values, comparing Johnson to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell.
On the issue of Ukraine aid, Johnson is working behind the scenes to develop a new House plan that includes seizing frozen Russian assets to give to Ukraine, adding border restrictions, and turning aid into a loan rather than a grant. Despite Trump’s support for the loan idea, Greene views it as insult to the American people. Additionally, Greene has taken aim at fellow GOP hardliner Bob Good, endorsing his opponent in the upcoming primary and criticizing Good’s support for Florida Governor Ron DeSantis over Trump in the past. Greene plans to campaign in Good’s district to influence the outcome of the race in favor of her preferred candidate, John McGuire.
