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Speaker Mike Johnson Removes Ohio Republican Mike Turner, Appointed by Kevin McCarthy, as House Intelligence Committee Chairman

Jan 19, 2025, 08:41 PM

Speaker Mike Johnson has removed Rep. Mike Turner, an Ohio Republican, from his position as chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, according to a GOP leadership source and a Republican lawmaker familiar with the matter. This decision comes as Johnson seeks to put his mark on top committee positions in the new Congress. Johnson praised Turner's service, stating that the change was not politically motivated and was a decision made by the House, emphasizing the need for 'fresh horses' in leadership roles. Turner, who was appointed to the post by former Speaker Kevin McCarthy, is a staunch NATO supporter and defense hawk. He expressed pride in his tenure on the committee, emphasizing his focus on national security and his future role on the Armed Services and Oversight and Government Reform committees. As chairman, Turner was part of the 'Gang of Eight,' a group of congressional leaders who receive sensitive, classified briefings. Johnson has not yet announced Turner's replacement on the Intelligence Committee.