WASHINGTON — On Wednesday, House Speaker Mike Johnson made the decision to remove the chairman of the influential House Intelligence Committee, a position once held by Rep. Mike Turner from Ohio. Turner’s consistent support for Ukraine’s assistance and other policy views have put him at odds with the incoming president, Donald Trump.
Johnson informed reporters late in the day that Turner would no longer serve in his role, which oversees critical national intelligence agencies and exerts significant influence over both law enforcement and foreign relations. During Trump’s administration, the committee became infamous for its partisanship, with its powers often utilized to benefit the then-President. Notably, Johnson had previously appointed two of Trump’s supporters to high-profile positions on the committee.
The speaker justified his choice to remove Turner by mentioning that the “intelligence community and everything regarding the committee requires a fresh start.” Aligning himself closely with Trump, Johnson indicated that an announcement regarding Turner’s successor would soon follow.
Johnson acknowledged Turner’s contributions, emphasizing his potential role in collaborating with NATO. However, Turner’s foreign policy positions diverged from those of the soon-to-be president, who aims to overhaul the federal government’s intelligence and law enforcement structures. Trump is expected to appoint staunch loyalists to lead significant agencies responsible for surveillance and security operations.
In response to his removal, Turner stated, “Under my leadership, we restored the integrity of the committee and refocused its mission on national security. The threats posed by our adversaries are genuine and demand serious discussions.” He had also previously refuted Trump’s erroneous assertions regarding Haitian migrants in his district allegedly consuming pets.
The initial report of Turner’s removal as chairman was made by Punchbowl News. Meanwhile, Rep. Jim Himes, the top Democrat on the committee, issued a statement praising Turner as a dedicated lawmaker committed to national security and thoughtful oversight of the intelligence community. Himes expressed concern, stating that Turner’s removal signals an increased vulnerability and foreshadows troubling developments ahead for the nation.