On Friday, the Republicans nominated the staunch conservative Jim Jordan for the position of Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, following ten days of vacancy in the leadership that has left Washington in a state of paralysis.
Republican Party's Turmoil
The Republican Party is currently grappling with a state of disarray in the aftermath of the sudden removal of Kevin McCarthy from the speakership on October 3rd. This move was prompted by divisions between moderates and supporters of former President Donald Trump, just one year ahead of the scheduled 2024 presidential elections.
Scalise's Withdrawal
Steve Scalise, the Republican majority leader in the House of Representatives and an elected representative from Louisiana (southeast), announced on Thursday evening his withdrawal from the race. This decision came two days after he narrowly won an internal party vote against Jim Jordan, the chairman of the Judiciary Committee.
Scalise's withdrawal became apparent when it became clear that he would not be able to gather the required 217 votes. This provided Jordan, the 59-year-old Ohio representative, with a second chance.
Trump's Favor
Despite being a divisive figure, Jordan has found favor among Republicans, especially from the right-wing and also from Trump himself. He was chosen over Austin Scott, a congressman from Georgia.
According to American media reports, Jordan prevailed over Scott in a second internal Republican vote this week with a majority of 124 votes to 81. This means he will need the support of more than 90 other Republicans to secure the Speakership.
Complex Calculations
Some of Jordan's colleagues have expressed doubt about supporting him, complicating the calculations in the House of Representatives where Republicans hold a slim majority.
Even in the event of an agreement on a Republican nominee, it is not expected that the entire House will vote today, as many members of both parties have left Washington.
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