House GOP Predicts Changes to Motion to Vacate Rules in Next Congress

During the House GOP’s annual retreat in West Virginia, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) unveiled the possibility of altering the rules around the motion to vacate in the upcoming Congressional term. This announcement comes several months after a coalition of eight Republicans, in conjunction with Democrats, utilized the procedural maneuver to remove former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) from his position. Johnson stressed that the potential alteration is generating significant discourse among lawmakers.

Potential House Rules Modification

Johnson clarified that while he is not actively advocating for a change to the motion to vacate, the topic is openly under consideration by members on both sides of the aisle. He expects that there will likely be amendments to the current rules but emphasized that he personally does not consider it a pressing issue. The Speaker recognized the widely expressed desire among members for a more standardized process on the House floor and highlighted the need to approach this matter thoughtfully and responsibly as custodians of the institution.

Current Rule and Context

As per the existing regulations, a singular member has the authority to initiate a motion to vacate against the Speaker, ultimately prompting a vote on the removal of the Speaker from office. McCarthy had previously agreed to this individual-member threshold as a condition of support from hard-line conservatives during the Speaker's race in January of the previous year. Notably, under the tenure of Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), the motion to vacate could only be invoked with the backing of a majority from either party.

However, this accommodation marked the commencement of McCarthy's downfall as Speaker. Approximately nine months later, Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) orchestrated a successful vote to expel the California Republican, with seven other GOP members and all House Democrats rallying behind the effort. The aftermath of this historic vote instigated turmoil in the GOP conference, leading to a temporary halt in legislative proceedings on the House floor.

Current Challenges and Political Tensions

Johnson's anticipation of rule changes coincides with mounting pressure from the conservative faction of the party regarding his approach to financial matters. His collaboration with Democrats in securing various funding agreements, including several continuing resolutions, has drawn the ire of conservatives advocating for substantial spending reductions and contentious policy provisions. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) has even suggested the possibility of proceeding with a motion to vacate if Johnson advances aid for Ukraine in the House.

Despite the brewing tensions, hard-liners have indicated a reluctance, at least for the time being, to initiate a vote to remove Johnson from the Speakership. Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) underscored that while the tool remains available, he has not been inclined to pursue this course of action, reiterating his stance from the previous week.

Discussion of Rule Amendment

The debate surrounding modifications to the motion to vacate rules emerged during the three-week impasse following McCarthy's removal. A cohort of 45 House GOP legislators, constituting just over one-fifth of the conference, endorsed a letter advocating for revisions to the rule.