Greene Accuses Speaker Johnson of “Hypocrisy” Over Handling of Representative Mills’ Protective Order
A growing rift within the Republican party is on display as Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) publicly criticized Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) for downplaying questions surrounding a protective order issued against Representative Cory Mills (R-Fla.). The dispute highlights a pattern of strategic alliances and pointed rebukes that have characterized Greene’s tenure in Congress.
Greene leveled the accusation during an interview with Axios on Thursday, taking issue with Johnson’s statement the previous day that he would rather “talk about something serious” than address the allegations against Mills. The protective order reportedly stems from accusations that Mills threatened to release sexually explicit photos and videos of his ex-girlfriend.
“They expelled George Santos, Mike Johnson did. He was Speaker and oversaw George Santos being expelled. Why isn’t he doing anything about Cory Mills?” Greene questioned, according to Axios. “There’s clearly proof behind her accusations that a judge is issuing a restraining order. So I would say to Speaker Johnson, this is a serious matter, and it needs to be taken seriously.” Mills has previously denied the allegations.
The contrast drawn by Greene points to the expulsion of former Representative George Santos (R-N.Y.) earlier this year. However, Johnson’s approach to the two cases differs significantly. He did not vote in favor of Santos’s expulsion, citing concerns about establishing a precedent of removing a member before a criminal conviction. As Johnson explained on “Fox and Friends,” “Our party believes in the rule of law and due process, and we’re deeply concerned about preserving those things…maybe he will be convicted by a jury of his peers, but that hasn’t happened yet.” Santos ultimately pleaded guilty to identity theft and wire fraud and is currently serving an 87-month prison sentence.
This public disagreement is not an isolated incident. Greene has consistently demonstrated a willingness to challenge Republican leadership when her political objectives are not met. She was one of only four Republicans to support Representative Thomas Massie’s (R-Ky.) discharge petition aimed at unsealing files related to the government’s investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. Greene indicated that many of her GOP colleagues avoided the petition, fearing retribution from party leadership or the White House.
Further illustrating her independent streak, Greene revealed plans to read the names of Epstein’s victims on the House floor, expressing concern for those who “have a lot to lose” if exposed. She optimistically predicted the discharge petition could garner as many as 400 votes in the House.
Looking ahead, Greene has confirmed her intention to seek reelection in 2026, dismissing any ambitions for a Senate or gubernatorial run. She described the Senate as “the land of frustration,” stating, “I don’t want to serve in a place more frustrating than the House.”
This latest criticism of Johnson underscores a pattern of internal conflict within the Republican party. Greene has previously surprised colleagues by aligning with Democrats to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies and has openly questioned Johnson’s strategy regarding potential government shutdowns. “If me saying those things are considered breaking with my party, then what is the Republican Party?” she asserted on Thursday.
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