Rep. Jim Jordan failed Wednesday on the second ballot to secure enough votes to become House speaker, leaving the lower chamber without a leader as Republicans’ path forward remained unclear.
All total, 22 Republicans voted against Jordan, who garnered a total of 199 votes. Four more Republicans voted against him compared to Tuesday’s first ballot. He picked up two Republicans, Reps. Doug LaMalfa of California and Victoria Spartz of Virginia.
Some Republicans — including three former Republican House speakers — on Wednesday indicated they want the lower chamber to vote to elevate the authority of Rep. Patrick McHenry, the speaker pro tempore. One key Republican source texted CBS News after the vote that “all roads lead to McHenry.”
Any effort to empower McHenry would likely require support from Democrats, with some saying they favor a vote to expand his authority to allow for consideration of a limited legislative agenda. House Democrats on Wednesday unanimously voted for their leader, Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and would likely seek concessions in any agreement to back McHenry.
For his part, Jordan vowed to remain in the race despite his disappointing showing in the second round. The House is adjourned until noon on Thursday.
Source: CBS News
