Amidst reports of an apparent lack of unity within the Republican caucus in the House of Representatives, the White House has issued a statement condemning the ouster of House Speaker John Boehner by hardline conservatives.
In a statement Monday, White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest accused the House Republicans of shambolic behavior and accused Speaker Boehner’s opponents of “dangerous and reckless” tactics that could jeopardize the progress that Congress has made in the past six years.
Earnest said the ouster of Speaker Boehner is an example of “dysfunctional politics” that could create instability and uncertainty in the legislature. He warned of an impending “brinkmanship” and urged House Republicans to remain unified and move forward with a smooth transition of power.
The White House also warned that the public angst over the ousting of Speaker Boehner could result in further divisiveness in Congress and damage public confidence in our political system. Earnest urged all involved to remain civil and respectful during the ongoing transition of power.
The recent ousting of Speaker Boehner and reports of dissent within the Republican caucus is only the latest example of the widening rift between conservatives and moderates within the party. It is likely to have long-term implications for how Congress functions and how public confidence perceives the legislative branch.
Going forward, both the White House and House Republicans should work together to ensure a smooth transition of power, while also engaging in robust and civil dialogue in order to bridge the divide and bring all Republicans together. Only with a united front can Congress effectively solve the deep underlying issues plaguing the country and improve the lives of the American people.