(Luis Cornelio, Headline USA) House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., has withdrawn from the race for House speaker.
Scalise’s exit comes after failing to persuade Trump allies in the House of Representatives and following former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s jab that Scalise overestimated his GOP support.
Scalise called on Republicans to rally behind a new leader while addressing the media at a press conference.
“If you look at over the last few weeks, if you look at where our conferences there’s still work to be done. Our conference still has to come together and is not there,” he told reporters. “There are still some people that have their own agendas. And I was very clear we have to have everybody put their agendas on the side and focus on what this country needs.”
Scalise’s decision comes after failing to persuade staunch conservatives in the House, following McCarthy’s humiliating ousting. He had initially faced opposition from House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, who received the endorsement of former President Donald Trump.
“This House of Representatives needs a speaker, and we need to open up the House again,” he stressed. “But clearly, not everybody is there. And they’re still schisms that have to get resolved. I never came here for a title I’ve had some great titles. I’m the Majority Leader of the House, and I love the job I have.”
Despite winning the majority of votes to be speaker nominee, Trump still raised concerns about Scalise’s health concerns.
“Steve is a man that is in serious trouble, from the standpoint of his cancer,” Trump said during an interview with Fox News Radio, referring to Scalise’s health concerns, as he battles blood cancer.
“I just don’t know how you can do the job when you have such a serious problem,” Trump added.
Donald Trump on Rep. Steve Scalise (R-LA) as potential House Speaker:
“I like [Scalise & Jim Jordan] very much, but … Steve is a man that is in serious trouble from the standpoint of his cancer. I mean, he’s got to get better — for himself. I’m not talking about even country.” pic.twitter.com/Mc7F1CnBYh
— The Recount (@therecount) October 12, 2023
The spotlight now turns to Jordan, who has indicated his interest in the speakership should Scalise exit the race.
Meanwhile, a faction of centrist Republicans is eyeing a potential McCarthy return. However, McCarthy has asserted that he will leave the final decision to the House conference.
