Former President Donald Trump has taken himself out of the race for Speaker of the House—just hours after he told Fox News that he was open to the idea as a “unifier” candidate.
After being endorsed by right-wing figures including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and former adviser Steve Bannon, the rumor mill was rife that the former president may take up the role as the next speaker following Rep. Kevin McCarthy’s shock ouster Tuesday.
He continued to float the idea to Fox News on Thursday, saying he would take on the role for a “short period” while Republicans figured out next steps.
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But by Thursday night, cracks appeared after Republican Rep. Troy Nehls (R-TX), who was one of the first people to throw Trump’s name out as a potential speaker, said he had spoken with Trump and that the former president would instead throw his weight behind Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH).
“I believe Congress should listen to the leader of our party,” Nehls added. Sean Hannity—a close Trump confidant for years—also reported the same thing on his primetime Fox News program Thursday night.
Early Friday morning, Trump confirmed the rumors in a Truth Social post, saying Jordan would be “great” in the role and that he had his “complete and total endorsement.”
“Congressman Jim Jordan has been a STAR long before making his very successful journey to Washington, D.C., representing Ohio’s 4th Congressional District. Respected by all, he is now Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee,” Trump wrote.
Trump then listed a number of Jordan’s sporting achievements as a wrestling star throughout high school and college, but failed to mention accusations that before he entered politics, during his role as an Ohio State assistant wrestling coach from 1986 to 1994, Jordan knew wrestlers were sexually abused by a team doctor. Jordan has consistently denied any such knowledge.
“So much is learned from sports, and Jim was a master!” Trump wrote.
“He is STRONG on Crime, Borders, our Military/Vets, & 2nd Amendment. Jim, his wife, Polly, & family are outstanding - He will be a GREAT Speaker of the House, & has my Complete & Total Endorsement!”
Both Jordan and House Majority Whip Steve Scalise of Louisiana announced on Wednesday a run for the speakership, making them the first two confirmed in the showdown to replace McCarthy.
