In the latest developments in the House of Representatives, Ohio Congressman Jim Jordan, supported by former President Donald Trump, has been chosen as the Republican nominee for Speaker of the House. Jordan secured 124 votes from party members in a secret ballot, with 81 members voting against him. However, despite his victory, Jordan faces challenges within his own party, with 55 members voting against him in a subsequent motion.
The Republican Party has struggled to unite behind a candidate, leaving the House without a Speaker for 10 days. The lack of a Speaker prevents the House from passing bills, approving emergency aid, or passing short-term spending motions.
Jordan’s opponent, Georgia lawmaker Austin Scott, was defeated in the ballot. However, several supporters of another candidate, Steve Scalise, who withdrew his nomination, have vowed to oppose Jordan. Jordan needs 217 out of 221 Republican members to vote for him, with a slim margin for error.
Some members expressed optimism that Jordan might gain more support in the coming days. The vote on the House floor is expected to take place no earlier than Monday, October 16, as lawmakers leave for the weekend. Republican House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy expressed his support for Jordan, emphasizing his capabilities for the role.
On the Democratic side, Hakeem Jeffries is set to be nominated, but the party’s minority status in the chamber means he has little chance of being elected. Jeffries criticized the Republicans for choosing what he called the chairman of the “Chaos Caucus,” referencing Jordan’s role in the Freedom Caucus.
The situation underscores the challenges faced by the Republican Party in its leadership, with past Speakers facing similar difficulties due to internal divisions. Stay tuned for further updates on this ongoing political development.
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