DLNews Politics:
When the House reconvenes Tuesday, two formally declared candidates are expected to take turns vying for one of Congress's most powerful positions. But it's not clear any of them can muster enough votes to ascend to the gavel or even that they can secure support from most Republicans in the chamber.
After Republican lawmakers voted Friday to no longer back House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) as their Speaker nominee, the party is scrambling to find a new candidate. One of the rumored hopefuls is House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn).
The Minnesota Republican is well-known for his ardent conservatism, which has fueled much of his political success. He has pushed far-right policies, such as proposals to castrate same-sex offenders chemically and impose strict voter ID laws. He has also questioned evolution and backed efforts to lessen drunk driving penalties.
Emmer has the advantage of a deep understanding of the political dynamic in the House, and he has built strong relationships across the GOP conference. He would likely face some challenges from the conservative Freedom Caucus, but he could overcome those by building consensus and focusing on bipartisan issues that are in the national interest.
Emmer is considered a frontrunner in the race, but he will face a significantly larger field than failed contenders Steve Scalise and Jim Jordan did. Other GOP members have reportedly signaled their intent to run, including Pete Sessions of Texas and Jack Bergman of Michigan, who are ranked as senior members of the GOP's campaign committee.
News Staff
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Politics
Speaker of the House
GOP
Tom Emmer
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