In a surprising turn of events, Ohio Representative Jim Jordan has reportedly decided to withdraw from the race for the House speakership after two unsuccessful votes.
Instead, he is expected to endorse Speaker Pro Tempore Patrick McHenry as the interim speaker.
McHenry has been serving in the role since the ousting of former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, led by Matt Gaetz and a small group of Republicans, along with the entire Democratic caucus.
McCarthy's removal was prompted by allegations of making "side deals" to secure new funding for the war in Ukraine, despite successfully excluding any such funding from a 45-day stopgap spending bill to keep the government operational.
Jordan, who was initially favored for the speakership following the withdrawal of Rep Steve Scalise, failed to secure enough votes from moderate Republicans, still reeling from McCarthy's removal. Despite significant backing from the America First faction of the GOP, Jordan's bid fell short.
House Republicans have been convening privately to reach a consensus. However, 55 members of the House GOP initially refused to support Jordan, with over 20 voting against him twice.
Meanwhile, House Democrats demonstrated unity by voting unanimously, twice, for House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of Brooklyn for the speakership. It remains uncertain whether Democrats will support McHenry, or if Gaetz's faction will back him.
The formation of a bipartisan coalition could be challenging, especially as far-left progressives, who were instrumental in removing McCarthy and causing disarray in the House, may be less inclined to cooperate this time.
"I am waiting to see what the assurances are around power sharing," said Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington, chairwoman of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, according to the Washington Post. "What do we have to ensure what happens here reflects the fact that Dems are essentially governing this body?"
Since the ousting of the House speaker, the Middle East has seen a surge in conflict, with Israel being attacked by the terrorist group Hamas. Additionally, President Joe Biden has pledged more funding for Ukraine, while the House has struggled to provide effective leadership for the American people.
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