MTG Threatened Speaker Johnson with Motion to Vacate Over Border Crisis

In a recent interview with former White House adviser Steve Bannon, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) voiced her strong opposition to the border deal struck by Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) with Democrats.

Greene conveyed her dissatisfaction with the agreement, particularly the absence of sufficient funding for GOP priorities, such as securing the U.S.-Mexico border.

Rep. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene claims she threatened Speaker Mike Johnson with a motion to vacate over border deal https://t.co/hvFsCDXx7y pic.twitter.com/XhImGX9OS6

— The Hill (@thehill) January 13, 2024

She issued a direct threat to Speaker Johnson, asserting that she would pursue a motion to vacate if he proceeded with any form of continuing resolution.

During her meeting with Speaker Johnson and other members of Congress, Greene emphasized the GOP's control over negotiations and stressed that she would find the border deal unacceptable.

She reiterated these points, placing the onus on Speaker Johnson to respond. The threat of a motion to vacate reflects Greene's determination to challenge the proposed resolution.

Speaker Johnson, in a brief statement to the press, announced the top-line agreement that aims to avert a partial government shutdown scheduled for Jan. 19.

He emphasized the importance of completing the appropriations process to ensure the government's smooth functioning. However, Greene and some members remain unsatisfied with the deal, pushing for alternative plans and urging the Speaker to reconsider.

Greene, consistent with her earlier stance, criticized the deal for resembling "Nancy Pelosi's budget" and expressed concerns about weakening border security by negotiating with Democrats on aid to Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia.

The ongoing discontent among GOP members raises the possibility of internal challenges to Speaker Johnson's leadership, reminiscent of the recent ousting of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA).

While Greene's threat of a motion to vacate underscores her commitment to opposing the border deal, other members, including Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX), have not ruled out supporting such a motion.

The internal dynamics within the GOP highlight the challenges faced by Speaker Johnson as he navigates the delicate balance of securing party unity.