Former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R–Bakersfield) may be reopening the door for a return bid to become Speaker mere days after Democrats and renegade Republicans voted to oust him.
McCarthy left open the door during a Monday morning press conference addressing the Hamas-led attack on Israel and ensuing conflict.
Driving the news: During the news conference, McCarthy was asked – amid chatter he might seek the post again after swearing it off in the aftermath of his motion to vacate – if he would reconsider running.
- “Look, the conference has to make that decision,” the Bakersfield Republican replied.
- While many of McCarthy’s allies in the House have backed other candidates for Speaker, some are already maneuvering back his direction.
Rep. Mike @lawler4ny says McCarthy should be reinstated as Speaker.
“I believe he is the right person to lead,” he tells reporters.
Asked about his troubles getting 217 votes, Lawler says: “Well, who can?”
“Does anybody have the votes? No.”— Sahil Kapur (@sahilkapur) October 9, 2023
Lawler (R-NY) who has spoke with both House GOP Speaker candidates Jordan & Scalise ahead of tonight’s conference meeting: “There are a lot of people who believe Kevin McCarthy is the right person to lead us.” pic.twitter.com/7bbSHiVTlH— Craig Caplan (@CraigCaplan) October 9, 2023
What’s next: The House Republican Conference has a closed-door meeting Monday night for a member’s only discussion, formally kicking off the jockeying for the Speaker’s gavel.
- Currently, two declared candidates have emerged: House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R–La.) and Rep. Jim Jordan (R–Ga.)
