Staff Reports
Former President Donald Trump could face a hurdle if he decides to take on the role of Republican House Speaker. A little-known House rule, titled “Temporary Step Aside of a Member of Leadership who is Indicted,” or Rule 26, could prevent Trump from assuming the position. According to this rule, a member of the Republican Leadership must step aside if indicted for a felony carrying a possible sentence of two or more years imprisonment. The Republican Conference would then have to meet and elect a temporary replacement. However, if the member is acquitted or convicted of a lesser charge, they may be eligible to resume their position.
This Little-Known House Rule Could Bar Trump from Becoming Speaker https://t.co/a6FA7jYTTU
— 🇺🇸🇺🇸Josh Dunlap🇺🇲🇺🇲 ULTRA-MAGA (@JDunlap1974) October 5, 2023
Trump has been indicted on 91 felony charges, including federal charges, a charge in New York, and another in Georgia. This could potentially pose a problem for his bid to become Speaker. Although there is no prohibition against changing the House rule, it is unlikely to happen.
Trump has hinted at his willingness to take on the role of Speaker, although his messaging has been somewhat cryptic. In a March 2022 interview, Trump stated that becoming Speaker is not something he wants to do. However, he has also indicated on Truth Social that he might serve as a stopgap Speaker until a “GREAT REPUBLICAN SPEAKER” is selected. Trump’s refusal to rule out anything has kept speculation alive.
While Trump contemplates the possibility of becoming Speaker, a growing number of Republicans and political pundits are voicing their support for him. Steve Bannon, host of War Room, believes that electing Trump as Speaker would unite the party. Alex Jones from Infowars suggests that making Trump Speaker would be a powerful message to challenge the “fake charges and fake trials” that Trump has faced. Even former NYC Mayor Rudy Giuliani has expressed his support for Trump as Speaker
