House GOP Leaders Advise Against Cohort Infighting as Counterproductive

House Republican leaders are warning their colleagues that internal conflicts are detrimental to their objectives, particularly with their small majority over Democrats.

Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., expressed concerns that these disputes could impact the upcoming general election in November, potentially giving Democrats a chance to gain control of the chamber, according to a report by Axios on Thursday.

During a closed-door meeting at the House GOP retreat in West Virginia, Johnson and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., addressed around 60 members, emphasizing that attacks within the conference could hinder the party’s aspirations.

Some members of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, like Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., are actively campaigning against their colleagues who are facing primary challenges, including Reps. Mike Bost of Illinois, William Timmons of South Carolina, and Tony Gonzalez of Texas, as reported by Axios.

A lawmaker present at the meeting stated, “Johnson strongly criticized those who are campaigning against other GOP incumbents in their districts, saying it violates our norms.” Scalise echoed Johnson’s sentiments, emphasizing that there was no reason to campaign against each other.

Less than 100 out of the 219 House Republicans were expected to attend the retreat, with many feeling frustrated by the ongoing infighting.

One House Republican shared with USA Today that the internal conflicts have drained the energy from some members, expressing weariness and frustration.

Another House Republican pointed out that there are still lingering resentments towards ultraconservative lawmakers who have hindered House actions, causing strain among the members.

Rep. Richard Hudson of North Carolina, chair of the National Republican Congressional Committee, stressed the importance of maintaining the GOP’s House majority, focusing on beating Democrats and picking up seats in the upcoming election.

Despite not officially intervening in the primaries, Hudson mentioned that discussions have arisen regarding members attacking their fellow colleagues.

Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York, chair of the House Republican Conference, expressed her support for Republican incumbents and emphasized the party’s stance on supporting them.