Republicans Nominate Steve Scalise for House Speaker Over Jim Jordan – WSJ
On October 12, 2023, House Republicans held an internal vote to nominate the next House Speaker. Majority Leader Steve Scalise emerged victorious, winning the nomination by a vote of 113-99, defeating Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan. This vote was conducted by secret ballot, with a total of 113 votes for Scalise, 99 for Jordan, eight for other candidates, and three members voting present.
While Scalise was nominated for the role of Speaker by his party, it was uncertain whether he could secure the 217 votes necessary for his official election when the full House votes. Scalise expressed his gratitude to his colleagues for designating him as the next Speaker but did not confirm whether a floor vote on the speakership would take place on that same day.
Under Scalise’s prospective speakership, his priorities included passing a bipartisan resolution supporting Israel, addressing government funding through spending bills, stimulating the economy, and dealing with the border crisis. Despite Jordan’s intention to support Scalise on the floor and his call for his colleagues to do the same, there remained uncertainty about whether all of Jordan’s backers would unite behind Scalise.
Some representatives expressed the need for clarity and unity, emphasizing the importance of having a Speaker and the House of Representatives functioning effectively. Max Miller, an advocate of Jordan and endorsed by former President Donald Trump, still intended to vote for Jordan on the floor, potentially leading to a multi-round vote, similar to previous scenarios.
The situation underscored the ongoing dynamics within the House Republican conference as they navigate the path towards electing the next House Speaker.
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