Speaker Mike Johnson’s decision to advance a $1.2 trillion government funding bill without majority GOP support raises internal party conflict and questions about his leadership’s future.
By yourNEWS Media Staff
In a move that has sparked controversy and potential internal dissent, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) successfully pushed through a $1.2 trillion government funding plan, despite significant opposition from within his own party. This action not only sidestepped the majority of House Republicans but also disregarded the Hastert Rule—a guideline preventing Republican Speakers from relying on Democrats to pass legislation. The plan, now headed to the Senate, aims to avert a government shutdown, with the Senate expected to act swiftly to pass the bill before the looming deadline.
The funding plan’s progression to the Senate was secured with 101 Republican votes in favor, against 112 Republican objections. This division among House Republicans underscores the contentious nature of the bill and the pressures exerted by Johnson and his leadership team to marshal support for its passage. Additionally, the procedure violated a House rule by introducing the 1,000-plus page bill to members shortly before 3:00 a.m. Eastern on Thursday, allowing less than 36 hours for review before the scheduled vote.
BREAKING: House passes $1.2 TRILLION spending bill. Johnson passed the bill despite opposition from a MAJORITY of Rs, violating the Hastert Rule. pic.twitter.com/tXijSrlJRK
— Bradley Jaye (@bradleyajaye) March 22, 2024
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) escalated the situation by filing a motion to vacate the chair, challenging Johnson’s leadership in light of the Hastert Rule violation and broader concerns over the bill’s content and fiscal implications. Although the motion is currently not privileged—meaning it does not necessitate immediate House action—it symbolizes growing discontent within the GOP ranks and could lead to future efforts to remove Johnson from his position.
This legislative maneuver comes at a critical juncture, with the House set to reconvene after a two-week Easter recess amid escalating tensions. Johnson finds himself at a crossroads, facing potential rebellion from some party members and demands from others for substantial foreign aid funding, including for Ukraine. The resolution filed by Greene serves as a stark warning of possible leadership challenges ahead, particularly regarding the contentious issue of funding Ukraine’s conflict with American taxpayer dollars.
As Congress anticipates discussions on the next fiscal year’s funding, which must be resolved before October, Johnson confronts the daunting task of navigating similar legislative hurdles. The skepticism within his party regarding another funding bill passed over Republican objections highlights the precarious nature of his speakership in the coming months.