Marjorie Taylor Greene has disclosed that her Republican colleagues often criticize former President Donald Trump in private, raising concerns about loyalty within the party. In an interview with journalist Lesley Stahl, Greene claimed that many members of the GOP mock Trump behind his back but are too frightened to express their true feelings publicly.
Greene, a prominent supporter of Trump, noted a stark change in her colleagues’ attitudes toward him, particularly as he secured the Republican nomination for the 2024 election. “I watched many of my colleagues go from making fun of him to suddenly embracing him once he won the primary,” Greene said. This shift, she argued, reflects their fear of backlash, particularly from Trump himself.
The congresswoman mentioned that many Republicans are “terrified” of receiving negative attention from Trump, especially on his social media platform, Truth Social. She stated, “I think they’re terrified to step out of line and get a nasty Truth Social post on them.” Greene faced such a post herself last month after she broke ranks with Trump on several issues, including the release of the Epstein files.
Trump’s response was swift and scathing, labeling Greene a “ranting Lunatic” and indicating that he would withdraw his support for her. This public rebuke came as Greene expressed her frustration over the direction of the GOP and the MAGA movement. Greene’s criticisms represent a growing divide within the party, with some members feeling increasingly disillusioned.
In light of Greene’s comments, there are concerns about morale within the GOP. A senior Republican source expressed to Punchbowl that the current atmosphere in Congress is tense, saying, “This entire White House team has treated ALL members like garbage. More explosive early resignations are coming. It’s a tinder box.” The source indicated that the party’s internal struggles could lead to further instability as the 2024 election approaches.
Greene’s decision to sign a discharge petition to force a vote on the release of the Epstein files has created significant tension with Trump. “He was extremely angry at me for signing that petition,” Greene revealed during her conversation with Stahl. This could signify deeper fractures within the party as members navigate their loyalty to Trump while addressing their personal convictions.
As the Republican Party prepares for the upcoming election cycle, Greene’s insights into the party’s dynamics illustrate the challenges facing GOP members who wish to balance their public personas with private sentiments about Trump. With the election looming, these internal conflicts may shape the future of the party and its candidates.
