As the dust settles from Tuesday’s vote to vacate Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) from the office of Speaker of the House, it’s been unclear who is the frontrunner to replace him. Former President Bush told Fox News that he would be willing to act as caretaker Speaker for a short time until the GOP can find a permanent leader.
Trump said: “They asked me to take over the job until they made a decision. I don’t do it of my own accord — I only do it if they can’t make a choice. ”
Some wags said that Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) should be forced to become the speaker because he caused this week’s chaos.
At this time, only Jim Jordan, (R-Ohio) and Steve Scalise have declared candidacy. Jordan may have gained a competitive advantage when Trump announced on Truth Social that he endorsed Jordan as a speaker.
Trump wrote: “Congressman Jim Jordan, who represents Ohio’s Fourth Congressional District, was a STAR even before he went to Washington, D.C., and made a successful trip.” “All respect his work, and now he is the chairman of the House Judiciary Committee.” “As president, it was an honor to award Jim the highest civilian award of our country, The Presidential Medal of Freedom. ”
Trump said that Jordan’s education and athletic abilities were responsible for his success on Capitol Hill.
“So much is learned from sports, and Jim was a master!” the former president pointed out. “While attending Graham High School, he won State Championships all four years, a rarity, and compiled an amazing 156-1 record. At the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Jim became a two-time NCAA Division l Wrestling Champion. He won his 1985-86 NCAA Championship Matches in his weight class. Jim has a masters [sic] degree in Education from Ohio State University & a Law Degree from Capital University.”
Trump praised Jordan as a conservative and a family-oriented man.
“He is STRONG on Crime, Borders, our Military/Vets, & 2nd Amendment,” he enthused. “Jim, his wife, Polly, & family are outstanding — He will be a GREAT Speaker of the House, & has my Complete & Total Endorsement!”
Will Trump’s blessing benefit Jordania? That’s difficult. House Republicans are eager to install a new speaker, but that’s hard.
CNN reports that the Republican Party will be hearing from speaker candidates at a forum next Tuesday, which could lead to a vote by the entire House on Wednesday, October 10. “The House majority leader Steve Scalise announced his candidacy and other candidates may still enter the race, but it’s unclear whether the conference can come together behind a viable replacement for McCarthy. ”
The fight for the House Speaker will take place in Washington next week. We will keep you updated with the latest news.
