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Trump is inserting himself into the messy race to become the next House speaker. Will it matter?

by Sophia Chen
4 comments
Speaker's Race Influence

The former President, Donald Trump, has once again demonstrated the influence of his endorsement in the realm of Republican politics. In a recent early morning social media post, Trump has thrown his support behind Ohio Representative Jim Jordan in the ongoing race to replace Kevin McCarthy as the House Speaker. This move underscores Trump’s ongoing efforts to assert his authority within the Republican Party, which he has significantly reshaped since his initial White House bid eight years ago.

Trump’s endorsement carries considerable weight, particularly in congressional primaries, where it can effectively clear the field of competitors. However, the race for the Speaker of the House is a complex internal party struggle. It will unfold behind closed doors and in an environment filled with tensions, given the recent ousting of Kevin McCarthy and the discontent within many Republican ranks.

Jim Jordan faces competition from House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, who also enjoys favorable relations with Trump. Whether any candidate can secure enough votes to claim the gavel remains uncertain. If Jordan were to lose, another Trump loyalist might emerge.

Yet, despite the outcome of the Speaker’s election, Trump undeniably wields considerable influence over House Republicans. It was his supporters, led by Representative Matt Gaetz of Florida, who orchestrated McCarthy’s removal and have driven much of the House GOP’s agenda. They remain firmly aligned with Trump, even as concerns linger within the party about his electability in the upcoming November election and his potential impact on down-ballot races.

Nevertheless, several factors are in play within this intricate political landscape. Speaker elections often hinge on personal relationships and deals between lawmakers that transcend ideological divisions. It remains unclear how much political capital Trump intends to invest in rallying votes for Jordan. While Trump was prepared to endorse Jordan, he expressed frustration that Texas Representative Troy Nehls broke the news prematurely.

Trump’s eleventh-hour interventions played a role in McCarthy’s victory as Speaker earlier this year, but those holdouts were already Trump loyalists. This time, hardline conservatives are aligning behind Jordan. Jordan is making efforts to court Republican moderates, reassuring them that their voices will be heard if he assumes the role, despite his reputation as a staunch conservative.

In response to Trump’s endorsement, Jordan acknowledged the potential boost to his candidacy, emphasizing Trump’s leadership in the party. This speaks to Trump’s oversized role within the Republican Party, as many increasingly refer to him as the party’s leader, even though he faces multiple criminal indictments.

Trump’s involvement in the Speaker’s race coincides with efforts by Republican leaders to quell drama and soothe tempers within the party. While a planned debate between the candidates on Fox News was called off, Republicans are attempting to reach a consensus candidate through closed-door meetings next week to avoid a protracted contest. However, many are prepared for a contentious race, as tensions among Republican lawmakers persist.

So far, candidates in the running for the Speaker’s gavel are seen as loyal to Trump, having voted against certifying the results of the 2020 presidential election. This alignment could serve Trump’s interests if he returns to the White House, as his previous agenda often clashed with congressional leaders from his own party.

Since leaving the White House, Trump has endorsed numerous like-minded candidates, deviating from past precedent. His ultimate goal, as he articulated on his Truth Social platform, is to play a role in the Speaker of the House selection process, at least in the short term, until a “GREAT REPUBLICAN SPEAKER” is chosen to assist him in his vision of “MAKING AMERICA GREAT AGAIN.”

Reporting by Zeke Miller from New York and Lisa Mascaro from Big Big News contributed to this report.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Speaker’s Race Influence

What is the significance of Donald Trump endorsing Jim Jordan in the Speaker’s race?

Donald Trump’s endorsement of Jim Jordan in the Speaker’s race underscores his continued influence within the Republican Party, which he has significantly shaped since his initial White House bid eight years ago. This endorsement carries substantial weight, especially in congressional primaries.

How does Trump’s endorsement affect the Speaker’s race dynamics?

While Trump’s endorsement can clear the field in many congressional primaries, the Speaker’s race is more complex, with tensions among Republicans due to Kevin McCarthy’s recent ouster. Jim Jordan faces competition from House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, who also enjoys Trump’s favor. It remains uncertain if any candidate can secure enough votes to become the Speaker.

What role does Trump play within the Republican Party?

Regardless of the outcome of the Speaker’s election, Trump has undeniable influence over House Republicans. His supporters were instrumental in McCarthy’s removal and have been driving much of the House GOP’s agenda. Many Republicans still align themselves with Trump, despite concerns about his electability and down-ballot impacts.

Are there other factors at play in the Speaker’s race?

Speaker elections often hinge on personal relationships and deals between lawmakers that transcend ideological lines. It remains unclear how much effort Trump intends to invest in rallying votes for Jordan, but his endorsement solidifies Jordan’s ties to the former president.

How does Trump view his role in the Speaker’s race?

Trump has expressed willingness to play a role in the Speaker of the House selection process, even suggesting that he could serve as Speaker on an interim basis. His involvement reflects his ambition and penchant for the political spotlight.

What is the Republican Party’s strategy to address the Speaker’s race?

Republican leaders are attempting to quell tensions and avoid a protracted contest by seeking a consensus candidate through closed-door meetings. However, they are prepared for a contentious race, given lingering tensions among Republican lawmakers.

How have previous Speaker elections been influenced by Trump’s endorsements?

Trump’s eleventh-hour interventions played a role in McCarthy’s victory as Speaker earlier this year, but those holdouts were already Trump loyalists. This time, hardline conservatives are aligning behind Jordan.

What is Trump’s broader goal in the political landscape?

Since leaving the White House, Trump has endorsed numerous like-minded candidates, deviating from past precedent. His ultimate goal is to shape the Republican Party with candidates who align with his “America First” outlook, should he return to the White House.

Who contributed to the reporting of this news?

This news was reported by Zeke Miller from New York and Lisa Mascaro from Big Big News.

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4 comments

Journobuff October 7, 2023 - 2:09 pm

wow! Trump is still doing his thing in the GOP! real power move there. big influence. gavel race is crazy!

Reply
PoliticGuru October 7, 2023 - 4:44 pm

Trump got da endorsement power. Speaker’s race is tricky biz, tho. Party dynamics wild!

Reply
EagleEye October 7, 2023 - 8:40 pm

Trump, Jordan, Scalise, it’s a mess. who gonna win gavel? Personal bonds, deals, and tensions, oh my!

Reply
InsiderInsight October 8, 2023 - 3:25 am

Trump’s got a grip on GOP. Loyalists lining up behind Jordan. Drama in da house!

Reply

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