Marjorie Taylor Greene Rallies Behind Mike Johnson in GOP Speaker Race
By Jake Beardslee ·
January 3, 2025
Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has extended her support to Speaker Mike Johnson ahead of a pivotal House Speaker vote, marking a significant shift in her stance. Greene, once a critic of Johnson, now emphasizes party unity as Republicans face internal discord that could impact the GOP's ability to fulfill its legislative agenda. JIM RASSOL/THE PALM BEACH POST / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The upcoming vote, scheduled for January 3, presents challenges for Johnson, who must secure a majority in a narrowly divided House. The GOP controls 219 seats, but dissent within the party—such as Representative Thomas Massie's declared "no" vote—heightens uncertainty. Jack Gruber / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
A failure to reach 218 votes could leave the House in limbo, delaying essential legislative processes, including the certification of President-elect Donald Trump's 2024 election victory. Joe Rondone/The Arizona Republic via the USA TODAY Network / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Greene acknowledged past opposition to Johnson but highlighted the importance of solidarity: "Let’s put aside our pride... It’s time to come together as Republicans... I’ll be voting for Mike Johnson." Former President Trump also backed Johnson, calling him a "good, hardworking, religious man" and urging party members to support him. Megan Smith-USA TODAY
Despite these endorsements, skepticism remains. Representative Chip Roy expressed doubts about Johnson's ability to secure the necessary votes, citing prior failures. Representative Andy Harris noted the need for Johnson to address concerns about his past actions to unify the party. Jay Janner / USA TODAY NETWORK
The stakes are high as the GOP seeks to consolidate power and advance its agenda. The speaker election and subsequent Electoral College certification votes will test the party's cohesion and ability to navigate internal conflicts. Republican National Committee / Wikimedia
