Originally published October 17, 2023 11:14 am PDT
In the initial roll call ballot held on Tuesday, House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan (R-OH) failed to secure the necessary 217 votes to clinch the title of House Speaker.
While Jordan’s camp was geared up for a multiple-round voting process, they are now navigating a steadfast wave of GOP dissent.
Two hundred of his fellow Republicans rallied behind Jordan during the initial vote.
However, 20 GOP members chose to diverge from the pack, casting their votes for other figures like McCarthy, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-IN), House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA), and House Rules Committee Chair Tom Cole (R-OK).
This marks a parallel to the challenges McCarthy faced during his own speaker election earlier this year.
While the Democratic votes were predictably cast in favor of Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), the Republican split largely hinged on a faction that raised questions about Jordan’s association with former President Trump, his affiliations with the Freedom Caucus, allegations of a bullying demeanor, and concerns about his fundraising prowess.
However, in a noteworthy turn of events, Jordan managed to change the minds of numerous critics in the days leading up to the vote.
Speaking on the matter, Trump commented from outside a Manhattan courthouse, where he is contending with business fraud allegations.
“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,” he said.
Jordan’s candidacy gained momentum amongst conservatives, especially after Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) successfully campaigned against McCarthy and Scalise withdrew his name.
Despite previous disagreements, McCarthy decided to back Jordan, leaving some Scalise supporters discontented, believing he could have done more to further Scalise’s chances.
As the voting process continues, Jordan remains optimistic about his chances to replace McCarthy.
Sharing his sentiments, Jordan remarked on Capitol Hill, “I feel real good about the momentum we have and I think we’re real close. We’ll go to the floor tomorrow. It’s not about pressing anybody, it’s just about we’ve got to have a speaker.”
