DON'T WAIT.

We publish the objective news, period. If you want the facts, then sign up below and join our movement for objective news:

TOP STORIES

Latest News

Potential Successors to Mike Johnson as House Speaker Emerge

 May 6, 2024

House Speaker Mike Johnson faces a removal vote initiated by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), adding to the tumult within the House's leadership.

Greene's motion to oust Speaker Mike Johnson, despite expected failure, underscores the fragile unity in the House and has led to speculation about who could replace the Louisiana Republican if he were to face ouster, as USA Today explains.

Earlier this week, Rep. Greene announced her intention to call for a vote that could potentially remove the current speaker. This development follows a turbulent period in the House, during which Speaker Kevin McCarthy was ousted just last October.

The Democrats in the House have rallied behind Johnson, aiming to avoid another leadership void that could hamper legislative activities.

Their support makes Greene's success unlikely, though it has not deterred her efforts.

While the outcome of the vote seems relatively predictable, it has reignited discussions about who could lead the House if Johnson were to be unexpectedly removed.

Reviewing Potential Speaker Candidates

Greene has not publicly endorsed any candidates to replace Johnson but mentions there are "capable" individuals within the party who could take over. This statement leaves the door open for speculation about potential candidates who have shown interest in the past.

Among the contenders are House Majority Leader Steve Scalise from Louisiana and Jim Jordan from Ohio, both of whom have previously attempted to secure the speakership.

Scalise, however, withdrew his prior candidacy citing insufficient support amidst his ongoing treatment for a treatable form of blood cancer.

Jordan also attempted but failed to consolidate enough votes after three rounds of voting, demonstrating the complexities and divisions within the party.

Other Figures in the Leadership Contest

Rep. Tom Emmer of Minnesota also threw his hat in the ring for the speakership in the past but withdrew after facing significant opposition from conservative factions and criticism from former President Donald Trump. His withdrawal ultimately cleared the path for Johnson's nomination and eventual election.

Additional figures who might be considered for the role include Kevin Hern from Oklahoma, Byron Donalds from Florida, Austin Scott from Georgia, and Gary Palmer from Alabama. While none have declared their intentions, their previous political maneuvers suggest interest in leadership roles.

Jodey Arrington from Texas and Tom Cole from Oklahoma were also thought to be contenders, though neither chose to run in the last leadership election.

Impact Of House Republican Division

The narrow margin by which the Republicans control the House -- one vote -- further complicates the leadership dynamics. This slim majority not only makes legislative achievements more challenging but also affects the stability of the party's leadership.

The divisions within the House Republican conference are deep, reflecting a broader struggle within the party about its direction and leadership style. These internal conflicts could shape the future political landscape and leadership of the House.

As the situation evolves, the potential for unexpected shifts in support remains a possibility that could alter the outcome of any leadership challenges.

Conclusion: Uncertainty And Potential Change

In conclusion, while Rep. Greene's efforts to remove Speaker Johnson are expected to fall short, they have sparked a renewed focus on the leadership of the House and potential candidates for the speaker role.

With the political landscape continuously shifting, the stability of House leadership remains uncertain, reflecting broader tensions within the party and the complexities of governing with a narrow majority.