Former President Donald Trump has expressed his willingness to temporarily assume the position of Speaker of the House if Republicans fail to find a suitable replacement. Trump revealed that House Republicans have approached him regarding the speaker vacancy as he prepares to run for president again. In light of this, he plans to visit Washington, D.C., next week to meet with congressional Republicans and discuss the selection process for a new speaker.
Initially, Trump downplayed the idea but later demonstrated his willingness to assist Republicans in their efforts to come together. He stated that he would do whatever he can to help them in this regard. Republican representatives Troy Nehls and Marjorie Taylor Greene have already voiced their support for Trump as Speaker of the House, with Greene emphasizing that the House chamber would resemble a lively Trump rally each day if he assumed the role.
On the other hand, two House Republicans, Steve Scalise and Jim Jordan, have officially announced their candidacy for the speaker position. Some Republicans speculate that Trump’s involvement in the speaker selection process is an attempt to exert power over the party, similar to when he took credit for breaking the impasse that delayed Kevin McCarthy’s election as speaker in the past.
However, there are potential obstacles to Trump’s eligibility for the position. Although the speaker does not necessarily have to be a member of Congress, the change in Republican rules would be required for Trump to assume the role. Additionally, Trump currently faces trials for indictments in multiple criminal cases, which may pose a challenge to his eligibility.
Unsurprisingly, Democrats have mocked the idea of Trump returning to Capitol Hill so soon after the January 6 insurrection. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer commented that they had already witnessed a Trump rally at the Capitol. Democratic Representative Brendan Boyle remarked that “criminals tend to return to the scene of the crime,” questioning Trump’s motives for wanting to visit again.
As the discussion surrounding the new speaker heats up, it remains to be seen how influential Trump’s involvement will be and whether Republicans will ultimately choose him as a temporary solution or opt for a different candidate.
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