Rep. Michael Cloud (R-Texas) said Thursday that he is exploring a “third option” to avoid a “status quo” in the House as the speaker's election approaches.
“There is concern that the delay in selecting the chairman may slightly delay the enactment of President Trump's policies,” Cloud said in a post on social platform X on Thursday night.
“This is a legitimate concern of mine. The other option on the table is to maintain the status quo, but this will undoubtedly fail President Trump's policies. I am working to find a third option. We need to build the House to enact lasting America First policy.”
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) faces a tough race to keep the gavel because he would only lose one vote in the small Republican House majority if all members attended and voted for the nominee. facing. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) has already pledged to oppose Mr. Johnson.
Mr Cloud also said following his meeting with Mr Johnson on Thursday that he believed it had been his “always goal” to ultimately support Mr Johnson.
Friday's Commons vote follows Mr Johnson's controversial December over a failed government spending deal.
Earlier this week, President-elect Trump gave his full and unequivocal support to Johnson, calling him a “good, hard-working, and godly man.”
“He's going to do the right thing, and we're going to keep winning. Mike has my full and complete support. MAGA!” President Trump said on Truth Social.
The Hill has reached out to Johnson's office for comment.
