The Daily The Arm-Twisting, Back-Stabbing Battle for House Speaker
23 snips
Oct 17, 2023 
Catie Edmondson, a congressional correspondent for The New York Times, offers keen insights into the chaotic battle for House Speaker. The discussion highlights the unprecedented leadership vacuum affecting legislative actions at a critical global juncture. Edmondson reveals the contentious rivalry between Jim Jordan and Steve Scalise, illustrating the internal rifts among Republicans. Tactics like grassroots mobilization and social media pressure emerge as Jim Jordan seeks to consolidate his support, raising questions about future dynamics in Congress.
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The Speakerless House
- The House of Representatives lacks a Speaker, hindering vital government functions, especially aid for Ukraine and Israel.
- This power vacuum also threatens a government shutdown if spending bills aren't passed by mid-November.
Scalise vs. Jordan
- Steve Scalise, a more traditional policy-focused conservative, and Jim Jordan, a staunch Trump supporter known for disruptive tactics, emerged as candidates.
- Jordan's history includes orchestrating a 2013 government shutdown and challenging the 2020 election results.
Scalise's Failing Campaign
- Scalise won the initial nomination but faced eroding support due to Jordan not endorsing him and hard-right lawmakers' demands.
- Even Kevin McCarthy, Scalise's former partner, publicly expressed doubt about Scalise securing enough votes.