House Republican Party in Disarray: Feuding Over Next Speaker Amid Global Crises

Disarray in the House Republican Party over the selection of the next speaker is causing dysfunction in the US government and sending a negative message during a time of global crises. While Steve Scalise was selected as the party’s nominee for the role, it became clear that he was struggling to secure the necessary votes. Should Scalise lack the support to become speaker, there could be an opening for a compromise candidate. The turmoil in the House follows the recent ousting of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Even if Scalise manages to secure the votes, he risks compromising his speakership by making concessions to extremists. Additionally, there is a growing competition for the position of majority leader if Scalise becomes speaker. The power vacuum in the House is undermining the party’s ability to govern and is sending a message of incompetence to moderate voters. The negligence represented by leaving the House chamber empty during global crises also provides propaganda victories to adversaries of the US. Scalise, who has battled back from injuries and cancer, must avoid falling into the traps that led to McCarthy’s downfall. Several high-profile Republicans have expressed concerns about Scalise, and there is doubt that he will be able to secure the necessary votes. Some of the mainstream Republicans who won key districts last year are frustrated with the party’s extremists who ousted McCarthy and are demanding accountability. The chaotic nature of the Republican conference means that even if Scalise becomes speaker, his troubles may continue.