Temporary House leader Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., talks with Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, as Republicans try to elect Jordan in a second ballot to be the new House speaker, at the Capitol in Washington, Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
Republican Rep. Jim Jordan Fails to Become House Speaker
Republican Rep. Jim Jordan failed on a crucial second ballot to become House speaker, losing even more GOP colleagues who refused to give him the gavel. A bipartisan group of lawmakers floated a plan to give interim speaker-pro-tempore, Rep. Patrick McHenry, more power to reopen the House and temporarily conduct routine business. Jordan’s path to become House speaker was almost certainly lost as he was opposed by more Republican detractors than in the first round of voting.
House Majority Leader Steve Scalise Arrives for Meeting with Jim Jordan
House Majority Leader Steve Scalise of La., arrives for a meeting with Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, at the Capitol in Washington, Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)
A surprisingly large and politically diverse group of 20 Republicans rejected Jordan’s nomination for House speaker, viewing him as too extreme for the powerful position. Republicans are exhausted by the infighting since the removal of Kevin McCarthy, and the House has hit a standstill. With Republicans in majority control, Jordan must win over most of his GOP foes to secure the position.
Former Speakers Gingrich and Boehner Favor Boosting Interim Speaker’s Role
Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, left, thanks Rep. Tom Cole, R-Okla., for his endorsement as the House convenes for a second day of balloting to elect a speaker, at the Capitol in Washington, Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
Former GOP speakers Newt Gingrich and John Boehner support boosting the interim speaker’s role, as they have no faith that Jordan can gain enough votes. The holdouts in the speaker election are a mix of pragmatists and lawmakers concerned about governing and those from districts where voters back President Joe Biden. Talks between Democrats and Republicans on alternative plans will accelerate.
Challenges Faced by the House
Congress faces daunting challenges, including a potential federal shutdown if the government is not funded, and requests for aid from Ukraine and Israel. Jordan’s political climb has been steep, raising questions about his leadership abilities. He also faces scrutiny over allegations from his time at Ohio State University and his close alliance with former President Donald Trump.