Bannon Urges House Speaker Johnson To Step Down For MAGA
Former Trump White House strategist Steve Bannon delivers a stark ultimatum at a conservative gathering in Phoenix, Arizona.
According to Breitbart News, Steve Bannon has called for House Speaker Mike Johnson to resign from his position by the end of 2024, citing concerns about the speaker's leadership capabilities and mounting opposition within the Republican conference.
Bannon's demand came during an interview at Turning Point USA's AmericaFest event, where he emphasized the critical timing of leadership change before the January 6 election certification process.
The former Breitbart News executive chairman pointed to growing dissatisfaction among Republican representatives, suggesting that anywhere from 10 to 20 members are firmly opposed to Johnson's continued leadership.
Continuing Resolution Sparks Leadership Crisis
Johnson's handling of the latest continuing resolution has become a focal point of criticism within Republican circles. The Speaker's decision to present a 1,500-page document without proper consultation with key figures, including former President Trump and prominent conservative voices, has drawn sharp rebuke from party stalwarts.
The controversy deepened when details emerged about provisions within the continuing resolution that included congressional pay raises and changes to healthcare benefits. These additions have been met with significant backlash from conservative base supporters and media outlets.
Bannon's criticism extended beyond the immediate crisis, connecting Johnson's leadership failures to broader conservative priorities. He emphasized that if the Republican conference struggled with what he considered the simplest task of 2025, more complex challenges would prove insurmountable.
Trump Alliance Shows Signs of Strain
The relationship between Speaker Johnson and former President Trump has reportedly deteriorated over recent developments. Johnson's failure to incorporate Trump's desired debt ceiling increase in the continuing resolution marked a significant point of contention.
Bannon, speaking as a close Trump ally, revealed that the former president's initial support for Johnson has waned considerably. The shift in Trump's position adds another layer of complexity to Johnson's tenuous hold on the speakership.
Political observers note that this growing rift could have significant implications for Republican party unity heading into the crucial election certification process. The timing of these developments has raised concerns about potential disruptions to legislative processes.
Strategic Timing for Leadership Transition
Bannon outlined his vision for an immediate leadership transition:
My fear is: This was going to be the easiest exercise we had in all of 2025: just pass a simple [continuing resolution], which, as you know, the Breitbart readers hate, the War Room audience hates, but we're prepared to do it because it kicked it down to President Trump when Russ Vought and Scott Bessent and President Trump's team, and Johnson couldn't even do that right.
Johnson screwed that up by including 1,500 pages and gave themselves a 35 percent pay raise, and got them off Obamacare, which is why the guy got shot in the back in New York City.
The proposed timeline would see a new speaker installed before January 6, with Bannon specifically mentioning Jim Jordan as a potential replacement. This suggestion aligns with broader conservative efforts to ensure strong leadership during critical upcoming legislative battles.
Looking Ahead To Critical Challenges
A successful leadership transition would need to address multiple pressing issues facing the Republican conference. These challenges include managing the ongoing border crisis, addressing energy policy, and navigating complex budget negotiations.
The proposal for new leadership comes at a time when Republicans are preparing for significant legislative initiatives in 2025. These include potential reforms to immigration policy and efforts to address the national debt, which has reached $36.5 trillion.
The situation underscores the delicate balance between maintaining party unity and advancing conservative policy objectives. Congressional observers note that the outcome of this leadership crisis could significantly impact Republican strategy in the coming year.
Future of House Leadership Remains Uncertain
Steve Bannon's call for Speaker Mike Johnson's resignation has intensified the ongoing leadership debate within the House Republican conference. The demand came during a pivotal moment at the Turning Point USA's AmericaFest in Phoenix, where Bannon articulated his concerns about Johnson's ability to lead effectively.
The controversy centers around Johnson's handling of the continuing resolution and its implications for future legislative priorities. With the January 6 election certification approaching and growing opposition within the Republican ranks, the pressure for leadership change has reached a critical point, potentially reshaping the political landscape in the early days of 2025.