As Rep. Jim Jordan aims to become House speaker, he spoke with Donald Trump on Thursday about it but didn’t say whether the former president supports him.
Mr. Jordan, Ohio Republican, is one of two confirmed candidates seeking the highest position in the House. The other is House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, Louisiana Republican.
Mr. Jordan, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee and founder of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, has been a staunch Trump ally. The congressman told NBC News that he spoke with the former president about his bid for the gavel but was coy about whether Mr. Trump backs him.
“I don’t want to say anything, but I had a great conversation with the president,” Mr. Jordan said.
Mr. Jordan has growing support for his bid from a number of lawmakers, but battling Mr. Scalise, the heir apparent, could prove a difficult task.
Meanwhile, Mr. Trump’s name has been thrown around as a replacement for Rep. Kevin McCarthy. Rep. Troy Nehls of Texas said he plans to nominate the former president next week when House members return.
Mr. Trump, however, said he’s focused on running for president and will do “whatever is necessary” to help with the selection process of a new speaker, preferably one who will help him.
• Alex Miller can be reached at amiller@washingtontimes.com.
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