Staff Reports
During a recent appearance on CBS's "Face the Nation," Ohio Republican Representative Mike Turner admitted that a "deal will have to be done" with Democrats if the GOP fails to elect a House speaker in the near future. This occurs subsequent to the removal of Representative Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) from his position and the subsequent nomination of Representative Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) for speaker.
Top Republican: 'Deal Will Have to Be Done' With Democrats If GOP Can't Elect House Speaker
A top Republican said that a 'deal will have to be done' if Republicans can't elect a House speaker.https://t.co/ewHU42nAq1
— The Epoch Times (@EpochTimes) October 16, 2023
Turner endorsed Jim Jordan, remarking, "In my opinion, he will make an outstanding speaker. I believe he will be capable of reaching 217. If not, alternative leaders exist within the House. Furthermore, in the event that a small number of radicals on the Republican side prevent the party from returning to its regular legislative duties, I believe it is inevitable that an agreement will need to be reached.
Nevertheless, there are still uncertainties regarding Jordan's ability to obtain the required 217 ballots. At present, the Republicans maintain a tenuous 221-212 majority in the lower chamber; therefore, should the Democrats cast a unified vote against Jordan, they can only afford to lose a maximum of four votes.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) disclosed that discussions regarding the formation of a bipartisan governing coalition have been underway between Republicans and Democrats. Jeffries underscored the criticality of amending House regulations in order to foster bipartisanship and guarantee that measures that enjoy substantial support from both parties are given precedence. He argued that the current rules undermine the interests of the American people by permitting a small group of Republicans to dictate the House's agenda.
While there are House Republicans who hold the view that Jordan has the potential to secure the required number of votes, others anticipate that lawmakers will ultimately demonstrate their support for Jordan in subsequent rounds of voting, despite initial support favoring alternative candidates like Kevin McCarthy or Steve Scalise.
McCarthy expressed "very good" confidence in Jordan's prospects, notwithstanding the persistent speculation, expressing optimism regarding the situation. McCarthy expressed disapproval towards the Republicans who cast the vote to remove him from office and advocated for party cohesion in order to better address the concerns of the American people.
As the Republican Party navigates the Speaker election, the final result continues to be uncertain. It appears that in the event that Republicans are unable to obtain the required number of votes, a compromise with Democrats will be required in order to advance. During this period, Capitol Hill is the site of political drama and strategic maneuvering.
