House Speaker Position Remains in Limbo

On October 11^th, the House Republican Caucus met to consider candidates for the House Speaker position. Current Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) edged out Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH) in the internal vote.  However, it has become clear that Scalise does not have the votes needed to gain approval on the House floor and has since dropped his bid for the speakership.  Rep. Jordan now appears to be the frontrunner, but is also struggling to get sufficient support for approval by the full House.  As a result, the House remains unable to conduct normal legislative business. There is increased urgency to resolve the battle for speaker given the war in Israel.  Further disruptions will continue to delay action on other key legislation such as the Farm Bill.