House Republicans have nominated House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.) for Speaker, making him the third GOP lawmaker in three weeks to attempt to secure the gavel.
Driving the news: Emmer secured the nomination over six other candidates in a secret ballot internal election.
Emmer will now have to gather at least 217 votes on the House floor to become Speaker. Despite receiving 117 votes in the conference, there remain around 20 holdouts for Emmer’s nomination.
- Emmer’s voting record, including support for same-sex marriage and opposition to objections to the 2020 election results, may present challenges in securing the necessary support.
- The Speaker saga has caused division within the GOP conference and hindered legislative progress in the House.
- Emmer’s nomination followed the withdrawal of Jim Jordan and Steve Scalise from the race.
What they’re saying: Some Republican representatives have voiced concerns about backing Emmer due to ideological disagreements, such as his support for the Respect for Marriage Act.
- The holdouts considering Emmer’s nomination have a wide range of ideological leanings, not limited to just the Freedom Caucus.
- Emmer, known for his honesty and leadership in helping the GOP secure victories, has been lauded by colleagues, including those from the Freedom Caucus.
- Former President Trump had both supportive and critical remarks regarding Emmer but subsequently stated that “I think he’s my biggest fan now.”
