Speaker Johnson Ousts Rep. Mike Turner from Intelligence Committee Amid Trump Concerns

Jan 15, 2025, 10:50 PM

Speaker Mike Johnson has removed Rep. Mike Turner (R-Ohio) as the chair of the House Intelligence Committee and from the committee entirely. Johnson's decision may have been influenced by individuals in former President Donald Trump's orbit, with reports suggesting concerns from Mar-a-Lago that Turner was too close to intelligence agencies and dissatisfaction with his handling of the FISA reauthorization fight. Turner, a supporter of Ukraine and NATO who advocated for continued funding for Ukraine, had also opposed the resolution to censure Rep. Adam Schiff. His removal has raised concerns among lawmakers, including Rep. Jim Himes (D-Conn.), the ranking member on the committee, who said he is "enormously concerned" and that the move "sends a shiver down my spine." Due to House rules limiting terms for committee members but making exceptions for chairs, Turner will not remain on the committee. Johnson is expected to announce Turner's successor and the members of the committee tomorrow.