Greene and Massie Back Off Ouster Vote, Seek Johnson's Concessions

After meeting with Speaker Mike Johnson twice, Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Thomas Massie indicate a pause in their push for an ouster vote, but demand concessions on Ukraine aid, Trump investigation, and spending.

Fox News Senior Congressional Correspondent Chad Pergram reports on the recent developments in the Republican caucus, where Representatives Marjorie Taylor Greene and Thomas Massie have scaled back their push for a vote to oust Speaker Mike Johnson.

During their initial two-hour meeting on Monday, Greene and Massie presented Speaker Johnson with a list of demands, which included a pledge to cease further aid to Ukraine, defund Special Counsel Jack Smith's investigation into former President Trump, and ensure that no bills would be brought to the floor without majority support from the House GOP conference. Additionally, they sought commitments to cut federal spending if a deal to fund the government for fiscal year 2025 is not reached by September 30.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Greene stated that they had held "discussions" with Johnson and that the onus was now on him to respond. She emphasized that their demands were "simple" and served the best interests of both the American people and the Republican party.

Greene and Massie, who had previously announced their intent to force a vote on their motion to vacate the chair, did not provide specific details on their next steps or whether they planned to meet with Johnson again. Greene acknowledged that Johnson had a "short" time frame to meet their demands but added that it would be "unrealistic" to expect immediate results.

Massie, who met with Johnson separately on Tuesday, communicated that Johnson had two options: make "some movement" towards their demands or face an ouster vote. He suggested that dragging out the process would be detrimental to Johnson and the GOP.

Speaker Johnson acknowledged holding two meetings with Greene and Massie and characterized them as discussions on "ideas and suggestions." He emphasized that such consultations were routine and that he operated with a slim majority in the House.

Greene, Massie, and Paul Gosar are the only Republicans actively seeking Johnson's removal, citing concerns over his handling of foreign aid and government spending. They have accused him of prioritizing the Democrat-controlled White House and Senate over GOP priorities.

Their actions stem from long-held grievances among conservatives who feel marginalized by Johnson's leadership. They argue that he has not adequately fought for their agenda and has instead conceded too much to the Democrats.

While Greene and Massie have paused their push for an ouster vote, it remains unclear whether Johnson will be able to resolve their concerns and maintain his position as Speaker. The outcome of these negotiations could have significant implications for the Republican caucus and the future of the party.