Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), a staunch ally of former President Donald Trump and chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, faced a setback in his quest to become the next House Speaker. On Tuesday, Republicans rejected Jordan's bid on the first ballot, with some members of the party viewing him as too extreme for the powerful position, which stands second in line to the presidency.
The rejection came despite Jordan's efforts to shore up support to replace the recently ousted Kevin McCarthy. The leader of the GOP's hard-right flank, Jordan is now maneuvering to take a central seat of U.S. power. However, the path has been fraught with challenges. Since McCarthy's removal by hard-liners, the House vote has quickly evolved into a showdown for the gavel. Approximately 20 Republicans have expressed reluctance to back Jordan, with concerns ranging from his perceived extremism to his alignment with Trump.
This resistance is diverse, comprising seasoned legislators, committee chairs concerned about governance, and newer lawmakers whose constituents favor President Joe Biden over Trump. Yet, with mounting public pressure from Trump's allies, including Fox News Channel's Sean Hannity, the longevity of this resistance remains uncertain. Jordan has managed to convert several detractors in just a few days, consolidating support among Republicans who find themselves with limited alternatives.
Former President Trump, currently facing business fraud charges in Manhattan, voiced his support, stating, "Jim Jordan will be a great speaker. I think he's going to have the votes soon, if not today, over the next day or two."
Jordan's political ascent has been steep. Known more for his combative nature than legislative acumen, questions arise about his potential leadership style, especially given the pressing challenges Congress faces. These include the risk of a federal shutdown and President Biden's aid requests for Ukraine and Israel.
To secure the gavel, Jordan requires near-unanimous support from his colleagues in a House floor vote. Given the narrow Republican majority of 221-212, Jordan can afford only minimal dissent to achieve the 217 majority threshold.
As the vote proceeded, dissenting voices became evident. Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.), a centrist leader, opted for McCarthy, the former speaker, causing murmurs in the chamber. Others showed support for Majority Leader Steve Scalise, the party's initial nominee to succeed McCarthy, who was also previously rejected.
Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY), a top Trump ally, officially nominated Jordan, drawing inspiration from the Old Testament and proclaiming Jordan as the "We the People's speaker." On the Democratic side, caucus chairman Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.) nominated Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York and cautioned against entrusting the speaker's gavel to a "vocal election denier."
The GOP's internal dynamics have been tumultuous, with the party witnessing public infighting and a halt in House business. Jordan acknowledged the challenges, stating, "We've got a few more people to talk to, listen to."
One contentious issue remains Jordan's role leading up to the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack and his refusal to acknowledge Biden's 2020 election victory. Rep. Ken Buck (R-Colo.) emphasized the need for Jordan to publicly state that Trump did not win the election for the party to move forward.
Despite the challenges, Jordan can bank on Trump's endorsement and grassroots activists' pressure, making it difficult for GOP members to oppose him publicly.
The GOP's trajectory has been closely watched, with Democrats criticizing the party's shift to the far right. Jordan's close association with Trump, especially during the Jan. 6 Capitol attack, has been a point of contention. Trump awarded Jordan the Medal of Freedom days after the attack, further solidifying their alliance.
As the GOP grapples with its identity and direction, the party's internal divisions and the looming 2024 elections add layers of complexity to an already charged political landscape.
