The U.S. House of Representatives kicked off its new session by approving a rules package that raises the threshold for removing the Speaker of the House, solidifying Speaker Mike Johnson’s hold on the gavel. The measure passed narrowly in a 215–209 vote along party lines, reflecting both the slim Republican majority and the internal tensions within the GOP.
The new rules require nine members of the majority party to initiate a “motion to vacate,” replacing the previous rule, which allowed a single member of either party to force such a vote. This change marks a direct response to the events of 2023, when the one-member rule contributed to the downfall of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA). Johnson, who faced a similar challenge in May, has now secured a stronger buffer against potential uprisings within his party.
Rep. Erin Houchin (R-IN) defended the changes, emphasizing the GOP’s authority to shape House procedures. “When you win the majority, you do have the opportunity to make the rules,” she said, dismissing criticism from Democrats and some dissent within her own caucus.
The rules package also reflects ongoing negotiations between the conservative Freedom Caucus and the centrist Main Street Caucus, two factions that often pull the party in opposing directions. The Freedom Caucus previously championed the one-member rule, which played a critical role in McCarthy’s eventual removal. However, the group’s influence appears to have waned as Johnson and his allies push for greater stability.
House Votes to Protect Speaker in Approving New Rules
A rules package that will make it harder to remove the House speaker was passed in the chamber along party lines on Jan. 3.
The 215–209 vote happened hours after Republicans handed Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) the gavel,…
— The Epoch Times (@EpochTimes) January 4, 2025
Johnson’s reelection as Speaker came with last-minute support from former holdouts, thanks in part to the lobbying efforts of President-elect Trump. Johnson received 218 votes to House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries’ 215, securing the role on the first ballot and avoiding a drawn-out battle.
Not all Republicans were thrilled with the new rules. Reps. Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) voiced objections to the inclusion of language supporting sanctions against the International Criminal Court over actions involving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Massie criticized the provision on social media, questioning its relevance to the rules package and calling for clearer GOP priorities.
The package also limits the use of expedited “suspension measures” to specific days, streamlining the legislative process but potentially reducing flexibility.
With the rules in place, the House aims to move forward under Johnson’s leadership. Whether these changes bring unity or further division within the GOP remains to be seen.
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