Former President Donald Trump is reportedly contemplating a visit to Congress. This comes just ahead of the crucial vote for the next House Speaker, scheduled for next week. The news sparked a flurry of speculation and anticipation within political circles and beyond.
Trump, who has been a dominant figure in American politics, confirmed on Wednesday that he had been approached about the possibility of becoming the next Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Speaking to reporters outside the NYC courthouse, Trump expressed his willingness to take on the role if it serves the best interests of the country and the Republican Party. His statement, “All I can say is we’ll do whatever’s best for the country and for the Republican Party,” underscores his commitment to the nation and his party.
If Trump becomes Speaker of the House, the House chamber will be like a Trump rally everyday!!
It would be the House of MAGA!!!
— Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene🇺🇸 (@RepMTG) October 5, 2023
According to Politico, Trump’s potential trip to Congress could be more than just a casual visit. The former President is open to pitching himself as a speaker candidate, according to a Republican familiar with internal discussions.
If this happens, Trump would address the House GOP sometime before lawmakers’ internal speaker election, which is set to happen on Wednesday. However, a final decision hasn’t yet been made.
The full GOP will meet Tuesday for an internal “candidate forum.” It’s not clear if Trump — the frontrunner in the 2024 presidential primary — would actually run for speaker. Winning would require near-unanimity from the House GOP, a difficult hurdle for the controversial former president.
One of his closest Hill allies, House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan, is already in the race. Jordan told NBC that he discussed his speakership bid with Trump this week.
🚨BREAKING: Donald Trump is considering a trip to the Capitol next week to pitch himself as a candidate for Speaker of the House.
Would you support Donald Trump as Speaker? pic.twitter.com/IljWTGcPjr
— Ian Jaeger (@IanJaeger29) October 5, 2023
The House Speaker position became vacant after Kevin McCarthy was ousted on Tuesday in a 216-210 vote following a Motion to Vacate the Chair filed by Rep. Matt Gaetz. Eight Republicans voted to oust McCarthy on Tuesday: Biggs, Buck, Burchett, Crane, Gaetz, Good, Mace, and Rosendale.
Following McCarthy’s dethroning, House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan (R-OH) announced his bid for House Speaker on Wednesday. Rep. Steve Scalise (R-LA) also threw his hat into the ring, announcing his bid for the same position on the same day.
The potential of Trump becoming the next House Speaker has stirred up a whirlwind of excitement and apprehension. His possible return to the political arena could significantly impact the dynamics of American politics, particularly within the Republican Party.Â
