Chaos in US House as Republican hardliners block appointment of Kevin McCarthy as new speaker | US News
The Republican Party was thrown into turmoil after hard-line members repeatedly blocked the appointment of a new Speaker of the House.
Republican Bosses Have Planned Alternatives democracy loudspeaker Nancy Pelosi with party leader Kevin McCarthy after taking control of the House of Representatives in the recent midterm elections
But the usually simple process was scuttled on Tuesday when a caucus of right-wing Republicans put forward their own candidate, Jim Jordan.
The group’s backing of Mr Jordan – who insists he doesn’t want the job – means Mr McCarthy cannot secure enough votes from his party to win the vote.
It was the first time in 100 years that a candidate for Speaker of the House was not nominated on the first ballot.
Jim Jordan was launched as a replacement by Republican rebels
The group behind the rebellion – the radical Liberal caucus – are often strong supporters of the former president Donald Trumpwho previously supported Mr. McCarthy as Speaker of the House.
However, figures including Florida’s representative, Matt Gaetz, have publicly voiced opposition to Mr. Trump’s choice.
After three rounds of inconclusive voting, the House adjourned without selecting a new speaker, making it impossible for the House to proceed with its normal business until a new speaker is selected.
Without a speaker, the House cannot fully form and cannot swear before members, appoint committee chairmen, and participate in floor proceedings.
The House is expected to reconvene on Wednesday, with Mr McCarthy insisting he will not drop out.
“That’s not going to happen,” he said when asked if he would back down.
The rebels, however, showed no sign of giving in, with Republican supporter Bob Good saying: “Kevin McCarthy is not going to be the speaker.”
