Could a single Florida lawmaker shake up Congress with a bold push to remove a controversial colleague? Rep. Randy Fine, a Republican from Florida, is stirring the pot with talk of forcing a vote to expel Rep. Ilhan Omar, a Democrat from Minnesota, over her outspoken views and unproven claims that have long dogged her career, as Axios reports.

Fine revealed his intentions in a recent interview with Axios, spotlighting a clash that’s as much about policy divides as it is about personal grievances.

This isn’t the first time Omar has faced Republican ire -- she was bumped from the Foreign Affairs Committee in 2023 for her sharp criticism of Israel. Earlier this year, a censure attempt by GOP members fizzled out. Now, Fine is weighing a heavier hammer: expulsion, which requires a daunting two-thirds majority in the House.

Fine’s Bold Stance Sparks Debate

Expelling a member isn’t a casual affair; even if every Republican votes for it, roughly 85 Democrats would need to cross the aisle—an unlikely scenario given the polarized climate. Fine’s motivations seem rooted in both policy and personal conviction, citing unverified allegations about Omar’s past.

He’s not shy about his own views either, having built a reputation for unwavering support of Israel since joining Congress this year. Fine, who is Jewish, has made headlines with controversial statements, including calls for Palestinians in Gaza to face unconditional surrender, drawing historical parallels to Japan’s capitulation in World War II.

On the Israel-Hamas conflict, Fine posted a blunt message: “Release the hostages. Until then, starve away,” a stance that underscores his hardline approach.

Omar Fires Back with Dismissal

Omar, a Somali-American Muslim and frequent critic of Israel, isn’t backing down from the challenge. She’s clashed with Fine repeatedly, and her response to his latest threat was laced with disdain.

“I don’t think anybody takes that man serious,” Omar shot back, brushing off Fine’s rhetoric as inconsequential.

Still, Fine hinted at taking concrete action rather than just venting frustration. His focus on Omar seems to reflect a broader frustration with progressive voices in Congress who challenge traditional alliances like the U.S.-Israel relationship.

House Struggles with Political Tools

The House itself is grappling with how often tools like expulsion, censure, and impeachment are wielded against political foes. This year alone, debates have swirled over whether to raise the bar for censure, as its frequent use has arguably dulled its impact. Fine’s potential move could test those boundaries yet again.

Fine’s unapologetic statements on Muslim communities in America have drawn criticism for stoking tension. Yet, from a conservative lens, his push against Omar might resonate with those who see her critiques of Israel as crossing a line into dangerous territory.

Omar represents a progressive vision that often challenges the status quo, while Fine embodies a no-compromise stance on issues like national security and foreign alliances.

What’s Next for This Showdown?

The odds of expulsion passing are slim, but the mere threat keeps the spotlight on Omar and her positions. It’s a reminder of how deeply divided the House remains, where personal and political animosities can overshadow legislative priorities.

For now, this feud is more theater than threat, but it’s a potent symbol of the battles conservatives wage against what they see as a radical left agenda.

Fine may not succeed in ousting Omar, but he’s ensured that the conversation -- and the tension -- won’t fade anytime soon.