Originally published October 5, 2023 8:00 pm PDT
In a Thursday interview, former President Donald Trump disclosed his readiness to step in as a temporary speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, aiming to bring unity within the Republican ranks while a permanent replacement is decided.
The revelation comes in the wake of Representative Kevin McCarthy’s (R-CA) removal from the speaker position earlier this week, following a motion to vacate introduced by Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL), accusing McCarthy of failing to fulfill promises that helped him secure the speaker’s seat in January.
“I have been asked to speak as a unifier because I have so many friends in Congress,” Trump conveyed to Fox News Digital.
He mentioned that in case the Republicans find themselves unable to rally around a new speaker, he’s been approached to take up the mantle for a “short period of time for the party, until they come to a conclusion.”
Trump emphasized that this offer was not about personal ambition but about aiding his party during a pivotal time. “I’m not doing it because I want to—I will do it if necessary, should they not be able to make their decision,” he stated.
The former President, who is also nurturing 2024 presidential aspirations, noted that his acceptance of the interim speaker role would hinge on the party’s need.
He outlined a possible short tenure of “30, 60, or 90-day period,” reiterating, “I would only do it for the party,” as his primary focus remains on his presidential campaign.
Meanwhile, Trump is considering a visit to the Capitol next week, according to a Republican familiar with the matter, Politico reported earlier Thursday.
Republican members of Congress will reportedly be meeting on Tuesday for an internal “candidate forum” to discuss Trump’s potential speakership.
Yesterday, the 45th President verified from a New York courthouse he was open to the House leadership role.
“We’ll do whatever’s best for the country,” he said, adding that his primary focus remains on the upcoming presidential election.
He expressed willingness to assist in the process if it benefits the nation and the Republican Party.
“If I can help them during the process, I would do it,” he said.
