Rep. Jim Jordan, a founder of the conservative House Freedom Caucus who is helping lead the GOP’s investigation into Biden family corruption allegations, is running for House speaker.
Mr. Jordan, Ohio Republican, wrote to GOP lawmakers Wednesday that he will compete for the top spot left vacant following Tuesday’s historic vote to oust Speaker Kevin McCarthy. He told them: “I helped deliver the most significant legislative accomplishments this Congress,” including a tough immigration and border security bill.
The Washington Times obtained a copy of the letter.
Mr. Jordan also promoted his work atop the Judiciary panel scrutinizing the Biden administration’s social media censorship policies and the weaponization of the Justice Department against Republicans and former President Donald Trump.
“And I have been among the leaders in pushing for fiscal discipline my entire career,” Mr. Jordan said.
Mr. Jordan, 59, is among several Republicans now vying for the position. Others seeking the post include Majority Leader Steve Scalise of Louisiana and Majority Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota.
SEE ALSO: GOP rebels say McCarthy sealed his own fate with broken promises
Mr. McCarthy was pushed out by a gang of eight hardline conservatives led by Rep. Gaetz of Florida who say he broke promises to instill fiscal discipline in the congressional spending process, which has led to runaway spending and a $33 trillion deficit.
Among the mix of candidates, Mr. Jordan is likely to attract some of the most conservative Republicans and in particular members of the Freedom Caucus who were unhappy with Mr. McCarthy and want the GOP leadership to fight more aggressively for spending cuts and border security.
Rep. Matt Gaetz said in a post on X, “My mentor Jim Jordan would be great!”
An early supporter was Rep. Mike Carey, Ohio Republican.
“House Republicans need a leader who can unite the conference and build on the accomplishments of Kevin McCarthy,” Mr. Carey said in a statement. “We were elected to rein in runaway federal spending, curb inflation, combat rising crime, and fix the border crisis. Jim Jordan is a proven conservative fighter who can continue delivering on our commitment to America.”
Another prominent conservative backing Mr. Jordan was Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky.
SEE ALSO: Trump dismisses House speaker speculation, says ‘total focus’ is on 2024 White House run
• Susan Ferrechio can be reached at sferrechio@washingtontimes.com.
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