Jim Jordan wins GOP House leadership vote
The Ohio representative defeated Steve Scalise 106-73 on Tuesday as Republicans prepare to serve in the minority.
By Nikolai Morales ·
Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio became the new House Republican leader on Tuesday. He won a secret ballot vote against Rep. Steve Scalise of Louisiana by a margin of 106 to 73. The election determined who will guide the party during its new role as the minority in the House.
Jordan, 62, currently serves as chairman of the House Judiciary Committee. He co-founded the ultraconservative House Freedom Caucus and led it as its first chairman. Scalise, 61, has held key leadership posts since 2014, including party whip and majority leader. He also survived a critical shooting in 2017 and a cancer diagnosis in 2023.
The vote followed last week's midterms, which left Republicans with a historically small conference. The party now faces a difficult path back to a majority in 2028. President Donald Trump is entering his final two years in office, and Republicans will manage the party without his direct control of the legislative agenda.
Jordan campaigned on an aggressive approach to oversight. He told colleagues that Democrats would launch numerous investigations into the Trump administration. "I am battle-tested on the oversight front and I know the Democrats' playbook," Jordan said. He emphasized that offense wins elections, not just pointing out Democratic policies.
Scalise focused on his experience in passing legislation and raising funds. He noted that he raised $67.9 million for the recent midterms, with about one third going directly to House campaigns and the National Republican Congressional Committee. "In competitive districts, every dollar counts and those resources are critical to winning back the majority," Scalise said.
Rep. Andy Harris of Maryland supported Jordan, citing the need for a new team. "I think you need to change the team and I think you need an excellent communicator, and he fits both those bills," Harris said. Rep. Mike Kelly of Pennsylvania backed Scalise, preferring a leader who works on facts over media appearances.
Rep. Steve Womack of Arkansas described the race as very close. He noted that some members want a new broom after the midterms, while others trust Scalise's past leadership. Outgoing Speaker Mike Johnson said he was close to both men and would let the members decide.
Other leadership positions were also on the ballot. Reps. Tom Emmer of Minnesota and August Pfluger of Texas ran for whip. Reps. Lisa McClain of Michigan, Erin Houchin of Indiana, and Greg Steube of Florida ran for conference chair. Democrats are expected to hold their leadership elections next week.
