On Friday, October 13, U.S. Representative Jim Jordan of Ohio secured the Republican Party’s nomination to become Speaker of the House. The Ohio-based legislator earned 124 votes to stave off late challenger U.S. Representative Austin Scott of Georgia.
“I think we can unite the conference,” Jordan said before the vote.
“I’ve been saying this for a week, I think I’m one individual who can bring our team together and then help our team go tell the country what we’re doing and why it matters to them.”
Jordan secures the party’s nomination days after Rep. Steve Scalise beat the Ohio congressman in a narrow vote. One day after securing the nomination, Scalise made the decision to step out of the race, opening the door for Jordan to have another shot at the position. As the race for Speaker of the House moves forward, members of the Republican Party remain divided in their support for the Ohio congressman.
“Look at what we’re dealing with. The world is on fire and we have an entire branch of government not functioning right now,” Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania said when asked about the current race for Speaker of the House.
“It’s unacceptable.”
Next, Jordan will compete against Democratic nominee Hakeem Jeffries in a general vote. Despite division within the party, Republicans are confident that Jordan will emerge with the win.
“How many rounds was it in Rocky?” Rep. Darrell Issa of California asked.
“Look, you’re talking about some tough characters. Jim Jordan was an all-state champion wrestler, he can go the equivalent of 15 rounds. I’m not sure how they do rounds in wrestling, but he’s capable of doing whatever it takes.”
