Staff Reports
Congressman Steve Scalise (R-LA) is poised to take on the role of Speaker of the House, but he’s facing opposition from a group of House Republicans who think he’s just another version of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA). These rebels are concerned that Scalise represents the “status quo,” and they are threatening to withhold their support when it’s time for the House to vote. Talk about shaking things up!
Scalise’s whip operation is scrambling to secure the backing of these dissenting Republicans. If the entire Democratic party is united against any Republican nominee, Scalise can only afford to lose four votes from his own party. That means these handful of Republicans have some serious power to push for concessions from Scalise. They’re holding their votes hostage, demanding change.
According to POLITICO, at least 10 Republicans have already pledged not to support Scalise and are even considering throwing their weight behind his rival, Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH). This group includes outspoken figures like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), who has expressed concerns about Scalise’s health (maybe she’s worried about him being out of breath from trying to round up votes?), and Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC), who questioned Scalise’s attendance at a meeting of a white supremacist group in 2002. They’re certainly not holding back with their reasons for opposing Scalise.
But it’s not just the rebellious ten who are causing problems for Scalise. There are other members, like Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) and Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY), who have raised their own objections. Boebert and Massie are both unhappy with Scalise because they don’t think he has a plan to avoid an “omnibus” (whatever that means, but it sounds really bad).
FAFO
These 10 Republicans Are Threatening To Derail 'Status Quo' Steve Scalise's Run For Speakerhttps://t.co/zjWpruc1Y6— Sheri™ (@FFT1776) October 12, 2023
So, here we are again, witnessing another battle for the Speaker’s gavel. It’s like déjà vu from earlier this year when McCarthy had to fight tooth and nail to secure his position. You would think the Republicans would have learned their lesson, but no, here they are with another internal divide on full display.
But don’t you worry, dear conservatives, because there’s still hope! Despite the resistance, Scalise has the support of one of McCarthy’s biggest critics, Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL). Gaetz is all in for Scalise and has even shouted his approval, declaring “Long live Speaker Scalise!” I guess Scalise can sleep easy at night knowing he has Gaetz’s blessing.
In the end, it’s anyone’s guess how this battle for the Speaker’s gavel will play out. Will Scalise manage to convince his detractors that he’s not just another McCarthy clone? Or will the rebels hold their ground and push for change? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure, the drama in the Republican Party is far from over. Stay tuned, conservative friends!
