In a move that sent shockwaves through Washington on Friday, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) sparked uproar within the Republican Party with her new bid to remove Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), potentially plunging the House - particularly the GOP conference - into a state of chaos.

Greene's resolution did not immediately trigger action on removing Johnson, but it rekindled memories of the disarray that unfolded last October when a group of conservative firebrands ousted former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.). The unprecedented move tarnished the party's image and detracted from their policy agenda, giving Democrats ammunition to criticize Republican governance.

The catalyst for Greene's motion was Johnson's endorsement of a $1.2 trillion government funding package negotiated with Democrats. This agreement, which sought to unite divided powers in Washington, infuriated spending hawks within the GOP who wanted deeper cuts to federal programs. Greene argued that the bill was a "dream and a wish list for Democrats" and criticized Johnson for his lack of leadership.

Republicans, including lawmakers facing challenging reelection races in November, expressed frustration over Greene's move, citing the need to focus on President Biden's track record on issues such as inflation and the border rather than internal party strife. The divisive atmosphere sparked concerns about the unity of the GOP, with some warning against a "Republican circular firing squad" that would only benefit Democrats.

Despite anger and frustration, some Republicans were not surprised by Greene's actions, as she had previously hinted at such motions. Representative Don Bacon (R-Neb.) commented that Greene's maneuver only added to the dysfunction within the party.

Crucial questions now loom over whether Greene's efforts will gain momentum. Timing is one factor, as Greene stated that she does not have a specific timeline for triggering the vote. She emphasized that the clock has started and it is time for the conference to choose a new Speaker. The number of Republicans who will join Greene remains uncertain, as some are reportedly supportive but reluctant to publicly endorse her resolution.

Another wildcard in the situation is the reaction of Democrats. While several Democratic lawmakers indicated support for Johnson, they suggested that their backing would come at a price, potentially in the form of progress on stalled aid for Ukraine. This could create an opportunity for Democrats to secure assistance for Ukraine while also protecting Johnson from being overthrown.

As tensions escalate within the GOP, the party grapples with internal strife that threatens to undermine their policy goals and unity ahead of the November elections. The outcome of Greene's bid to oust Johnson remains uncertain, but its ripple effects are already clearly felt, both within the Republican Party and in the larger political landscape.