There is still no end in sight for the high-stakes speakership battle after House Republicans ousted Kevin McCarthy more than two weeks ago. Frustrations and divisions have only intensified within the conference as Republicans search for a way to resolve the impasse. The House, meanwhile, remains in a state of paralysis as Republicans struggle to coalesce around a speaker candidate, with the chamber effectively frozen amid the threat of a government shutdown next month and conflict unfolding abroad. Then, in the aftermath of McCarthy’s ouster, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise’s speakership nomination met a swift downfall when the conference failed to come together on his bid. When asked how he plans to get 217 votes, Hern said he’ll work “hard” to get people on his side.

Source: CNN October 22, 2023 14:31 UTC