Staff Reports
In a surprising turn of events, several key Republican holdouts have decided to endorse Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) for the role of Speaker of the House. This endorsement propels Mr. Jordan significantly closer to securing the necessary support to win the speakership, a feat that seemed implausible just days ago.
Former President Donald Trump just got a massive endorsement for his bid to become President of the United States again. “Rep. @Jim_Jordan, a founding member of the House Freedom Caucus, stands with @realDonaldTrump,” the MAGA War Room said on Twitter pic.twitter.com/j1wSDgdBGV
— Anna Maria Hill (@ah121254) March 17, 2023
Among the former opponents who have now backed Mr. Jordan are House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers (R-Ala.) and Rep. Ken Calvert (R-Calif.), both of whom had previously firmly opposed his candidacy. Notably, both individuals have experienced a change of heart and are now wholeheartedly supporting Mr. Jordan's bid. In a statement, Mr. Rogers pointed to constructive discussions with Mr. Jordan and their shared stance on critical legislative matters as the basis for his endorsement.
Another former holdout, Rep. Tom McClintock (R-Calif.), has also joined the ranks of Mr. Jordan's supporters. Frustrated by what he perceives as a breakdown of party discipline among House Republicans, Mr. McClintock believes that Mr. Jordan is the obvious choice to lead the majority and merits the vote of every Republican.
Likewise, Rep. Ann Wagner (R-Mo.), who initially opposed Mr. Jordan, has reversed her position and declared her backing. Following extensive conversations with Mr. Jordan, she is now confident that he shares her conservative priorities and will effectively address issues such as government funding, border security, and human trafficking.
While the endorsements from these former opponents represent significant victories for Mr. Jordan, he still faces substantial challenges. He must persuade several other holdouts who continue to oppose his bid, including Reps. Don Bacon (R-Neb.), John Rutherford (R-Fla.), Carlos Gimenez (R-Fla.), and Steve Womack (R-Ark.). Nevertheless, with the current surge of momentum and growing support, Mr. Jordan may well secure the speakership.
It is noteworthy that Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), the ousted former speaker, has expressed confidence in Mr. Jordan's eventual victory. Despite the hurdles ahead, McCarthy believes that the Republican majority will unite under Mr. Jordan's leadership to counter President Joe Biden's agenda. Only time will reveal whether Mr. Jordan can muster the necessary support and overcome the remaining opposition to become the next Speaker of the House.
