Staff Reports
In a surprising twist of events, several crucial Republican holdouts have thrown their support behind Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) for the speakership, significantly boosting his chances of securing the position. Among these recent endorsements are House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers (R-Ala.) and Rep. Ken Calvert (R-Calif.), who had previously expressed their opposition to Jordan.
My statement in support of @Jim_Jordan as the next Speaker of the House: pic.twitter.com/j0WGX2FgnY
— Congressman Nick Langworthy (@RepLangworthy) October 13, 2023
Rogers, who had initially stated that there was nothing Jordan could do to win his vote, elaborated on his change of heart in a thread on X. He explained that he and Jordan had engaged in productive discussions concerning the passage of critical legislation. Rogers emphasized the importance of a strong National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), funding for essential government functions, and the Farm Bill. Calvert shared similar sentiments, underscoring the significance of national security and appropriations objectives.
Joining them in endorsing Jordan are Rep. Tom McClintock (R-Calif.) and Rep. Ann Wagner (R-Mo.), who initially had reservations but were persuaded by their conversations with Jordan. McClintock lamented the breakdown of party discipline within the Republican Party and called upon fellow Republicans to unite behind Jordan as the majority's preferred choice.
While these endorsements represent significant gains for Jordan, he still faces challenges and opposition from within his own party. Jordan is the second nominee for the speakership after Rep. Kevin McCarthy's (R-Calif.) removal, with House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) initially nominated but later compelled to withdraw his candidacy due to inadequate support. Rep. Austin Scott (R-Ga.), who briefly entered the race and garnered several supporters, has now endorsed Jordan, yielding to the majority's preference.
Nevertheless, there are still Republican holdouts, including Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.), who remains undecided, and Rep. John Rutherford (R-Fla.), who reiterated his refusal to back Jordan, citing conference rules. Rep. Carlos Gimenez (R-Fla.) has proposed granting Speaker pro tempore Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.) emergency powers while the party deliberates on selecting a speaker. Rep. Steve Womack (R-Ark.) also maintains his opposition to Jordan.
Despite the remaining challenges, Rep. McCarthy has expressed confidence that Jordan will ultimately secure the speakership. Jordan's ability to win over these remaining holdouts will be crucial, as he can only afford to lose five votes to secure the gavel. The race for the speakership continues to unfold, with Republicans divided and the outcome uncertain. Stay tuned for more updates on this captivating political drama.
