Trump's Intervention in GOP House Speaker Race Stirs Controversy
Former President Donald Trump has thrust himself into the turmoil surrounding the Republican-led House, following the removal of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Trump's sudden involvement, which includes endorsing Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan for the speaker role, has intensified the chaos, drawing both support and criticism from various factions within the party.
The Department of Homeland Security's announcement on the U.S. Federal Registry revealed Trump's potential return to the US Capitol for the first time since the January 6, 2021, incident. Trump even hinted at the possibility of temporarily assuming the speaker role himself.
Trump's endorsement of Jim Jordan, a staunch Trump loyalist and a central figure in the impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden, came as a surprise to many. The endorsement, posted on Trump's Truth Social network, praised Jordan more for his student wrestling achievements than his political career.
Jordan's potential speakership, if realized, could signal a more combative relationship with the White House. His opposition to U.S. aid to Ukraine and his alignment with Trump's policies could further polarize the GOP and risk a government shutdown in a standoff with Democrats over spending.
However, Jordan's candidacy and Trump's endorsement might not sit well with moderate Republicans. These centrists, crucial for the GOP's slim majority, might be wary of Trump's influence in the 2024 elections. The race for the speaker position, which also includes Republican House Majority leader Steve Scalise, is expected to be closely contested. Scalise, known for his popularity within the party and his support for aid to Ukraine, might appeal to a broader base, especially major donors, compared to Jordan.
The political drama further intensified with the cancellation of a joint interview between Jordan and Scalise on Fox News, following backlash from House Republicans.
The past week has been tumultuous for the GOP. The unexpected removal of McCarthy, after a mere nine months in the role, has left the party in disarray. The looming deadline for the temporary spending bridge, set for November 17, and unresolved issues around spending cuts, indicate another potential crisis on the horizon.
Trump's reentry into this volatile situation could further inflame tensions. His alleged discussions about sensitive U.S. nuclear submarine information, as reported by ABC News, has raised concerns about his potential return to the presidency.
The aftermath of McCarthy's ouster has also led to calls for revenge within the GOP. Some members are pushing for the expulsion of Rep. Matt Gaetz, the perceived instigator of the revolt against McCarthy. Others demand changes to the rule that allows a member to call for the speaker's removal.
The GOP's internal strife has been aptly summarized by Rep. Dusty Johnson, who described the situation as a "stupid clown car" and warned against the destructive tendencies of the party's far-right members.
As the GOP grapples with its internal divisions and the looming specter of Trump's influence, the party's future direction remains uncertain.