In an era where Republicans are seeking to expand their political influence by aiming for control over both the Senate and the White House in the upcoming November elections, it’s crucial to evaluate their performance in managing the House of Representatives. Under the leadership of Kevin McCarthy and subsequently Mike Johnson, the 118th Congress has notably underperformed, enacting a mere 47 laws. This is a stark contrast to the so-called “do-nothing Congress” of the 1940s, which Harry Truman criticized, yet it managed to pass 906 bills. The majority of legislation passed by the current GOP majority has been primarily focused on preventing government shutdowns, including a last-minute $1.2 trillion spending bill to keep the government operational.
Mike Johnson, who unexpectedly rose to the position of Speaker, has demonstrated a lack of legislative skill and political acumen. His ascension was not due to his legislative capabilities but rather his involvement with Donald Trump’s election-denial efforts, promoting a controversial theory that was even rejected by the Supreme Court. Despite these credentials, Republicans unanimously selected him for the Speaker role, a position that demands exceptional leadership, as previously exemplified by Nancy Pelosi.
Johnson’s leadership was immediately tested when he faced opposition from within his own party. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a key figure in the GOP’s more radical faction, filed a motion to remove Johnson following the passage of the spending package, signaling internal discord and challenging his authority.
This internal strife within the Republican Party comes at a time when the GOP’s majority in the House is diminishing. Notable departures, including Mike Gallagher’s recent announcement of his early exit, are symptomatic of a broader dissatisfaction within the party. This sentiment was echoed by Ken Buck, who openly criticized the party’s direction and its frivolous approach to impeachment, highlighting a departure from constitutional principles in favor of social media spectacle.
The upcoming retirements of influential committee chairs such as Cathy McMorris Rodgers and Mark Green, along with Kay Granger’s decision to step down early from her role as House Appropriations Committee chair, underscore a trend of experienced legislators choosing to leave their positions. This exodus of seasoned leaders, coupled with Johnson’s series of missteps, including his decision not to push for the removal of George Santos, reflects a leadership crisis within the Republican-controlled House.
As the 118th Congress is marked by its lack of productivity and internal conflicts, the Republican Party faces significant challenges in maintaining unity and effectiveness. With the November elections approaching, the party’s ability to govern effectively and uphold democratic norms remains under scrutiny, raising questions about its capacity to lead if granted more power.