Washington — Rep. Mike Turner, the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee on Sunday derided a group of lawmakers that he says have continued to "stop everything" in Congress amid opposition toward additional aid to Ukraine and a possible effort to oust House Speaker Mike Johnson.
"Unfortunately, the chaos caucus has continued to want to stop everything that occurs in Congress," the Ohio Republican said on "Face the Nation" on Sunday. "It's not as if they have an alternative plan, they're just against those things that are necessary that we're doing."
Turner said an aid package to Ukraine in its war against Russia is "necessary for national security," noting that it has widespread support in Congress despite some opposition on the fringes. After a commitment by Johnson to bring forward supplemental funding for U.S. allies when lawmakers return from recess next week, Turner expressed confidence that an aid package can pass through both chambers and receive the president's signature.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has been leading the charge to oust Speaker Johnson from his position due to frustrations with his handling of government funding. House Democratic leadership, however, has made it clear that they will not support this effort, potentially saving Johnson's speakership if it comes to a vote.
Greene, a Republican from Georgia, recently filed a motion to vacate, hinting at a possible vote to remove Johnson. The success of this effort may depend on Johnson's handling of funding for Ukraine and whether there is enough support within the House GOP to replace him as speaker.
The House Republican conference has faced challenges in recent months, with five members leaving their positions, further reducing the GOP majority. This trend highlights how disruptive fringe elements can be within the conference.
Rep. Turner commented on the situation, stating, "That's what we have seen. That certainly makes it difficult for people who just want to get the job done." Despite the turmoil, Turner expressed confidence in Speaker Johnson's support for national security initiatives.
