Staff Reports
House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) seems to be encountering significant resistance in his pursuit of the Speaker of the House role, and it's safe to say that his support isn't exactly overwhelming. According to U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC), a substantial group of 30 to 40 Republicans are giving Scalise a resounding thumbs-down. Ouch.
Sen. Booker reacts to GOP Rep. Steve Scalise withdrawing his bid for speaker: "To have this level of dysfunction amongst the House Republicans…this is very problematic at a terrible time going on in our world right now." pic.twitter.com/TeCAd8mwfp
— MSNBC (@MSNBC) October 13, 2023
Norman claims he intends to cast his vote for Scalise in the initial ballot, but realistically, it's akin to saying you'd have a plate of Brussels sprouts before indulging in a juicy steak – it's all for appearances. The undeniable reality is that opposition to Scalise is growing, and it's increasingly evident that he may not amass the votes necessary to secure the coveted Speaker position.
Rep. Keith Self of Texas doesn't beat around the bush, declaring, "It's evident to everyone that Steve Scalise lacks the necessary votes." When Keith makes a statement, you can bet your bottom dollar it's a no-nonsense observation.
But that's not all; Rep. Carlos Gimenez (R-FL) has pledged his support to Kevin McCarthy. Ah, good old McCarthy, the former House Speaker who, reports suggest, is considering another run if no one else can get their act together. Talk about contingency plans, right?
Meanwhile, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) is shouting from the rooftops, urging Scalise to step aside. She contends that it's abundantly clear he stands no chance of accumulating 217 votes. Instead, she's calling on her colleagues to rally behind Jim Jordan, a true conservative hero in her eyes. When Luna gives a directive, you better believe she means business.
Here's where it gets fascinating: Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-TX), bless his heart, was among the earliest supporters of Jim Jordan. He championed Jordan fervently, cast his vote with passion, and rallied for his cause. However, he's now exerting pressure on Scalise, warning, "If Steve Scalise can't secure the Speakership, I will actively encourage Jim to reenter the race." It sounds like a rather unsubtle hint to me.
And guess what? Jim Jordan seems to have heard the alarms ringing, as he's reportedly willing to rejoin the race only if Scalise waves the white flag and steps back. Talk about a surprising twist!
Ladies and gentlemen, it's an unfolding narrative, and the drama in the House is thicker than molasses. Will Scalise garner sufficient support? Will McCarthy dust off his Speaker's hat? Or will Jordan stage a comeback and seize the throne? Only time will reveal the outcome. So take a seat, grab your popcorn, and prepare for a political showdown that promises to keep you on the edge of your seat.
