A storm is brewing within the Republican ranks of Congress following Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s resignation. Her departure might be just the beginning, as a senior House Republican has hinted at further resignations on the horizon. Frustration with the White House and House Speaker Mike Johnson has reached a boiling point, leading several members to feel alienated and threatened.
In a message to Punchbowl News, the unnamed Republican voiced their dissatisfaction, stating, “This entire White House team has treated ALL members like garbage. ALL.” The quote reflects a profound sentiment coursing through the party, suggesting widespread discontent among various factions, including appropriators, authorizers, hawks, and doves. The Republican emphasized that the atmosphere of arrogance from the White House has left members feeling belittled and ignored.
The aftermath of Greene’s resignation serves as a wake-up call for House Republicans. The anonymous congressman predicted, “More explosive early resignations are coming,” warning that morale is alarmingly low. They expressed skepticism about the party’s control of the House in the upcoming midterms. “Mike Johnson will be stripped of his gavel and they will lose the majority before this term is out,” the Republican declared, pinpointing an imminent tipping point for the GOP.
According to Punchbowl News, the situation is precarious, with the party at risk of losing its majority even ahead of the 2026 elections. Upcoming special elections, especially that in Tennessee for the seat left vacant by former Rep. Mark Green, are crucial. If Republicans win this seat, their margin will remain slim at 219-213. However, a loss will only exacerbate their struggles.
Democrats are poised to potentially gain more ground, with additional elections on their calendar in Houston and New Jersey. The stakes are high: if Republicans fall short in these contests, their margin could plummet to an even split of 216-216. This uncertainty has raised alarms among party members, with the risk of more retirements or health issues further jeopardizing their grip on power.
Compounding these challenges, the upcoming holiday season is known for its resignations, and this year may prove particularly tumultuous. A “brutal” legislative calendar lies ahead, with pressing deadlines such as the expiration of enhanced Obamacare premium subsidies at the end of December. This looming deadline could fracture GOP unity and worsen already strained relations.
Despite the ominous outlook, Speaker Johnson remains optimistic. His spokesperson, Greg Steele, insists that the majority’s tightness does not alter their strategy. “It doesn’t change anything,” Steele told The New York Times. The focus, he reiterated, will be on efforts to strengthen their position going forward.
This turbulent moment underscores a critical juncture for Republican leadership and their cohesion as they navigate internal dissent and an unpredictable legislative landscape. Resignations from within the ranks could prove to be just the tip of the iceberg as they grapple with the challenges ahead.
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