Staff Reports
In a surprising twist of events, several prominent Republican holdouts have now thrown their support behind Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) in his bid for the speakership, significantly boosting his prospects of clinching the position. Notably, House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers (R-Ala.) and Rep. Ken Calvert (R-Calif.), who had initially expressed opposition to Jordan, have now publicly endorsed him.
A rare display of GOP courage:
Rep. Ken Buck voted "Present" on the Speaker vote, rejecting both Jim Jordan and Steve Scalise, for their refusal to acknowledge that the 2020 election was not stolen.
Who else thinks we need more of this? ✋pic.twitter.com/vQ5JGVRDN5
— Really American 🇺🇸 (@ReallyAmerican1) October 11, 2023
Rogers, who previously claimed that there was nothing Jordan could do to win his vote, explained his change of heart in a thread on X, where he highlighted the productive conversations he had with Jordan regarding crucial legislative matters. He emphasized the importance of key initiatives such as the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), funding for essential government functions, and the Farm Bill. Calvert echoed similar sentiments, underlining the significance of national security and appropriations goals.
Joining the ranks of those endorsing Jordan are Rep. Tom McClintock (R-Calif.) and Rep. Ann Wagner (R-Mo.), both of whom had initial reservations but were ultimately convinced through their discussions with Jordan. McClintock also voiced concerns about the breakdown of party discipline within the Republican Party and called upon fellow Republicans to unite behind Jordan as the majority's choice.
While these endorsements mark significant progress for Jordan, he continues to face challenges and opposition from within his own party. Jordan is the second nominee for the speakership since Rep. Kevin McCarthy's (R-Calif.) ousting. Initially, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) was nominated but later withdrew his candidacy due to insufficient support. Rep. Austin Scott (R-Ga.), who briefly entered the race, and many of his supporters have also rallied behind Jordan, aligning with the majority's choice.
However, there are still Republican holdouts, such as Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.), who remains undecided, and Rep. John Rutherford (R-Fla.), who reiterated his refusal to support Jordan, citing conference rules. Rep. Carlos Gimenez (R-Fla.) has advocated for empowering Speaker pro tempore Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.) with emergency powers during the party's deliberations on selecting a speaker. Rep. Steve Womack (R-Ark.) also maintains his opposition to Jordan.
Amid these lingering challenges, Rep. McCarthy has expressed confidence in Jordan's eventual success in securing the speakership. Jordan's ability to win over these remaining holdouts will be crucial, as he can only afford to lose five votes to claim the gavel. The speakership race continues to unfold, with divisions among Republicans and an uncertain outcome. Stay tuned for further updates on this engaging political saga.
