One of President Donald Trump’s key supporters in Congress may soon emerge as a leading defender against multiple investigations and impeachment threats from Democrats.
Multiple House Republicans expressed to Fox News Digital that they anticipate losing control of the chamber in November, leading to significant changes in their leadership ranks.
“I don’t see a scenario where everyone keeps their job,” stated one bluntly. “[Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La.] would likely be the first to go, and then [House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La.] has to decide if he’s going to run for leader and whether he can beat [House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio].”
Jordan’s name was frequently mentioned among the conversations with various House Republicans who spoke anonymously to discuss internal matters.
A second House Republican declared Jordan as the “number one name” in the discussions concerning a GOP minority leader.
The Ohio Republican is well-known within the party. As one lawmaker put it, “His celebrity status is very helpful… when Jim Jordan comes to town for you, you pack the venue with supporters.”
This popularity has been evident during the election cycle, with Jordan traveling extensively to support fellow House Republicans across the political spectrum, from vulnerable moderates to staunch conservatives.
Compared to his previous attempt for the speakership in October 2023, when the ousting of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy triggered a chaotic scramble, Jordan’s approach seems different now. That time, he had strong backing from conservatives but faced significant pushback from moderates, some of whom felt threatened by his supporters.
One House Republican referred to his current image as “Jim Jordan 2.0.” They’ve seen him broaden his reach beyond the Freedom Caucus, gaining a more extensive support base. “He’s just a great citizen of the conference,” they remarked.
However, Jordan hasn’t publicly indicated any leadership ambitions since that tumultuous round. A second Republican noted he has actively dismissed discussions on the topic. Recently, he mentioned in an interview that his focus is on regaining the House majority.
Another Republican reflected on Jordan’s subtle groundwork in building connections and pointed out he tends to stay in the background, avoiding overt power plays.
Meanwhile, Scalise, Johnson’s deputy and a longtime member of House GOP leadership, is expected to enter the fray for the minority leader position.
“It’s pretty clear they’re both positioning for it,” remarked another House Republican. “Jordan attracts a lot of support, but there are many loyal to Steve, especially long-serving members.”
Some predict Scalise will lead the race, followed closely by Jordan. The question, as posed by another Republican, is who might be perceived as the better combatant against the Democrats?
A Republican ally to Scalise pointed out that if the party were to lose, the race for leadership would become a significant contention, with the decision potentially hinging on who could successfully continue their agenda should they regain power in the future.
It’s likely to be a tough contest, considering the rivalry simmering from their previous speaker competition. Scalise had won a majority of support from Republicans behind closed doors but couldn’t secure the overall votes needed on the House floor.
However, there’s uncertainty about whether the scenario will materialize. Some believe that if Johnson seeks to run for minority leader, he could still secure votes due to his track record in leadership roles.
There’s also a possibility that Republicans might defy expectations by retaining the House, in which case, Johnson would likely remain a leader.
If predictions hold true, many anticipate Johnson stepping down willingly. One Republican pointed out that after serving as Speaker, it seems unlikely he would want to transition to minority leader.
Others were more direct, claiming “Johnson’s done.” Johnson himself dismissed issues related to leadership races recently, emphasizing a focus on the current midterm, describing it as unprecedented.
Should things not unfold as he hopes, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, R-Minn., may be poised to continue in his role, expressing intent to run regardless of outcomes.
His strategy appears wise to some, focusing on consolidating his position rather than getting involved in any debates regarding higher leadership competitions.
But in a political climate described by some as a potential “bloodbath,” where some Republicans foresee major losses, no one can be too certain.
Several GOP members admitted that they anticipate Democrats could gain around 20 to 25 seats, thanks in part to effective redistricting.
A significant loss could lead to calls for a complete shakeup of the leadership team, with one Republican suggesting that the entire current leadership could be “wiped out.”
Another potential contender is August Pfluger, R-Texas, who is reportedly preparing for a chance to run for leadership, but specifics remain somewhat unclear. It’s suggested he might aim for the No. 2 position, particularly if Emmer steps away or if circumstances change.
Overall, as the midterms approach, it seems there’s a consensus forming among House Republicans: November could be a challenging month.
“What I hear from across the nation aligns with what I’m seeing in the numbers,” one Republican stated about the shifting landscape. There appears to be a growing sense of urgency among the ranks.
