Staff Reports
In a shocking turn of events, Republican Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks from Iowa has disclosed that she's been subjected to "credible death threats" and an "avalanche of menacing calls" following her switch of support for the House speaker position. Initially backing Rep. Jim Jordan from Ohio, Miller-Meeks altered her allegiance, opting to support Rep. Kay Granger from Texas, citing Granger's "outstanding leadership" as the driving force behind her change.
The Office of Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks has released the following statement:https://t.co/7l2EkLagx4 pic.twitter.com/R8mUPQ6RRW
— Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, M.D. (@RepMMM) October 18, 2023
In a strongly worded statement, Miller-Meeks vehemently condemned the threats and harassment she's had to endure. She made it abundantly clear that she won't be intimidated by bullies and reassured her constituents that her office is fully cooperating with law enforcement, with relevant authorities having been informed of the situation.
Miller-Meeks' apprehensions were further exacerbated by the realization that Jordan failed to secure the necessary 217 votes to be elected as speaker, prompting her to cast her vote for Granger. She clarified that concerns regarding Jordan's ability to unite the conference weighed into her decision.
In response to the reported threats, Jim Jordan himself denounced such abhorrent conduct, underscoring that no American should harass another based on their beliefs. He appealed for unity and implored everyone to desist from such behavior.
This unforeseen sequence of events underscores the internal tensions within the Republican Party and underscores the significance of selecting a consensus candidate. With six Republicans changing their votes during the second ballot, it is evident that not everyone within the party is in alignment. The next speaker vote is scheduled for Thursday, and the impact of this controversy on the outcome remains to be seen.
