During a recent meeting, a top Republican National Committee official urged Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene not to take action against Speaker Mike Johnson, as allies of former President Donald Trump try to prevent an internal conflict that they deem unnecessary and distracting.
The meeting between Greene (R-Ga.) and RNC chair Michael Whatley took place after she accused Johnson of making a “slimy back room deal” with Democrats and vowed to initiate a vote to remove him from his position.
Despite the RNC chair’s advice to prioritize party unity and focus on expanding the majority in the House, Greene seemed reluctant to back down. She mentioned speaking with Trump earlier in the day, implying that the former president shared similar sentiments with Whatley.
As tensions rise within the Republican conference, Greene faces a dilemma of either compromising her stance or risking a rift with Trump. Her decision is eagerly anticipated as she plans a news conference alongside Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) to discuss the potential vote on Johnson’s leadership.
While Greene’s actions have strained her relationships within the party, the GOP is concerned about the impact of her latest move on their messaging strategy and unity ahead of the upcoming elections.
Despite warnings from party officials and Trump associates, Greene seems determined to challenge the status quo. Her defiance could have consequences, potentially isolating her from certain aspects of the Trump-aligned circle that she has long been associated with.
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CORRECTION: An earlier version of this report incorrectly referred to Michael Whatley’s title. He is the RNC chair.
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