Mike Turner Ousted as House Intel Committee Chairman by Speaker Johnson

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) announced Wednesday that Mike Turner (R-OH) would no longer serve as Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee. The move comes just days before President-elect Donald Trump is set to take office, signaling a leadership shake-up as Republicans prepare for the new administration.

Johnson emphasized that the decision was not personal but reflected a broader desire for change. "This is a House decision," Johnson clarified to reporters. "This is no slight whatsoever to our outgoing chairman. He did a great job, but the intelligence community and everything related to HPSCI [House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence] needs a fresh start."

Johnson commended Turner’s leadership during a challenging time, noting, "He’s done a great job. He performed valiantly in a difficult time under difficult circumstances. I have nothing but positive things to say about my friend." Johnson also assured that Turner would continue to serve as his appointee for matters involving NATO, underscoring his value to Republican leadership.

Turner, in his response, expressed pride in his tenure and the accomplishments of the committee under his leadership. "We restored the integrity of the Committee and returned its mission to its core focus of national security," Turner said in a statement. He added, "The threat from our adversaries is real and requires serious deliberations."

While Turner will no longer chair the Intelligence Committee, he remains a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee. He highlighted his ongoing efforts to strengthen national defense and expand capabilities at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. "My work continues," Turner affirmed, mentioning his plans to welcome the NATO Parliamentary Assembly to Dayton in the coming months.

Johnson’s decision underscores a broader Republican strategy to bring fresh energy and leadership into key positions. With the return of Donald Trump to the presidency on the horizon, the GOP appears determined to align its leadership with its goals for the next four years.

As Johnson navigates this leadership transition, all eyes are on the House Intelligence Committee, which plays a crucial role in addressing threats from foreign adversaries. The focus on strengthening America’s national security is expected to remain a top priority under new leadership.

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