Trump Says He’s Willing To Serve As House Speaker For Up To 90 Days — If It’s ‘Necessary’ To Unite Republicans

Former President Donald Trump has disclosed his willingness to temporarily assume the role of Speaker of the House in an effort to unify the Republican Party. Trump, aged 77, conveyed his openness to this short-term position, suggesting he could serve for a duration of “30, 60, or 90 days” if necessary. He cited his numerous friends in Congress and their request for him to act as a unifying force if the party faces challenges in selecting a replacement for Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), as he is concurrently running for president.

Trump clarified that he has been approached with the idea of taking up the speakership temporarily until a more long-term solution is reached by the Republican Party. His motivation lies in supporting the party’s interests rather than personal ambition, stating, “I’m not doing it because I want to — I will do it if necessary, should they not be able to make their decision.” Trump plans to engage with Republican lawmakers in Washington during a meeting on Capitol Hill, coinciding with the GOP conference’s candidate forum to discuss potential candidates for the vacant speakership position.

The electoral process for selecting a new speaker is set to commence in the full House, with Trump emphasizing his commitment to his presidential campaign as his primary focus. Trump’s eligibility for the speakership position is currently limited by House GOP rules, which prohibit individuals facing felony indictments from serving in such roles. However, the rules could potentially be revised to enable Trump’s candidacy for the speakership. Trump faces a total of 91 charges across four criminal cases, with potential sentences totaling up to 712 years and six months in prison if convicted on all counts.

In the wake of Rep. McCarthy’s removal, candidates such as House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) have announced their candidacy for the speakership. Nevertheless, some GOP lawmakers, including Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), Troy Nehls (R-Texas), and Greg Steube (R-Fla.), have expressed their desire for Trump to be nominated and elected as the House speaker.

To secure election, candidates must receive an absolute majority of votes in favor of a named candidate, with “present” votes having the effect of lowering the required number. This process mirrors the election of Rep. McCarthy as speaker in January, which required multiple rounds and “present” votes before his election was confirmed.

{Matzav.com}