From staff and wire reports
WASHINGTON — Former President Donald Trump is officially backing Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio, the pugnacious House Judiciary Committee chairman and longtime Trump defender, to succeed Kevin McCarthy as House speaker.
“Congressman Jim Jordan has been a STAR long before making his very successful journey to Washington, D.C., representing Ohio’s 4th Congressional District,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social site shortly after midnight Friday. “He will be a GREAT Speaker of the House, & has my Complete & Total Endorsement!”
The announcement came hours after Texas Rep. Troy Nehls said Thursday night that Trump had decided to endorse Jordan for the role.
Both are trying to lock in the 218 votes required to win the job and need the support of both the far-right and moderate factions of the party.
It’s unclear whether Trump’s endorsement will force Scalise, the current GOP majority leader, out of the race, or if either can reach the threshold.
Jordan’s district includes Lima, Delaware and Mansfield.