Staff Reports
The House of Representatives has been in a chaotic situation for more than two weeks as a result of Kevin McCarthy's ousting as Speaker. Mike Huckabee, a former Republican governor of Arkansas, has urged House members to reach a compromise in an attempt to end the current impasse. Huckabee made a lighthearted contrast, saying, "This isn't Burger King; you don't get your way. McDonald's is here. Order Jim Jordan from what you have up there."
Former @GovMikeHuckabee urges House GOP to compromise on @Jim_Jordan: 'This isn't Burger King'
DETAILS: https://t.co/ahPHDu73j5 https://t.co/ahPHDu73j5
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) October 19, 2023
Huckabee and former presidential advisor Kellyanne Conway both voiced their dissatisfaction with the House's lack of progress during a recent Fox News conversation. In contrast to the vote the day before, Jim Jordan, the chairman of the judiciary committee, had not been able to get enough votes to take over as Speaker. Jordan lost four more Republican votes, for a net loss of two, even though he picked up two more. Conservatives, including Huckabee, are frustrated by this setback and want the GOP-controlled lower chamber to get back on track.
Huckabee and Conway emphasized how crucial it is to choose a Speaker and proceed. Huckabee underlined that Republicans need to band together and put the needs of the country above individual complaints. Conway reiterated these ideas, emphasizing the House's obligation to work together and represent the interests of the American people. Prominently delayed are government funding, border security, and an aid package for Israel due to the lack of leadership in the House.
Jim Jordan has stated unequivocally that he will not give up his pursuit of the Speakership and that he plans to return to the issue for a third vote round. Up until a permanent Speaker is chosen, some Republicans have suggested giving Speaker Pro Tempore Patrick McHenry more power. But Democrats would probably need to approve of this approach, and it's not certain if they would be open to such a deal. It is critical that delegates put aside their disagreements and focus on completing the duties at hand during this period of uncertainty.
