Trump urges Republicans to vote for Kevin McCarthy for Speaker

House Republicans opened the second day of the new Congress with no apparent off-ramp from the political chaos as GOP leader Kevin McCarthy vows to become House speaker despite losing in multiple rounds of voting that threw the new majority into tumult.

The House gaveled in at noon Wednesday, and McCarthy's allies quickly asked for a quorum count, to buy time as lawmakers-elect made their way to the chamber floor.

It was the first time in 100 years that a nominee for House speaker could not take the gavel on the first vote, but McCarthy appeared undeterred. Instead, he vowed to fight to the finish, encouraged, he said, by former President Donald Trump to end the disarray and pull the Republican Party together.

Early Wednesday, Trump publicly urged Republicans to vote for McCarthy: “CLOSE THE DEAL, TAKE THE VICTORY,” he wrote on his social media site. He added: “REPUBLICANS, DO NOT TURN A GREAT TRIUMPH INTO A GIANT & EMBARRASSING DEFEAT.”

[mikebrian]

That's not the real McCarthy. It's a clone.

[ga]

I have a few speakers in my basement that's not being used.

[Telcontar]

This is a ridiculous move by Trump, even if he hopes that currying favour with the imperial regime will get them off his back

He has to go for the throat and help destroy the old GOP, including the McCarthy types. If he doesn't, both he and the country are done for.

[Argonaut]

Trump proves over and over again his uncanny ability to pick losers. In addition to being one himself, of course.

[bonniesolesby]

Hell No McCarthy! We the people sick of traitors.

[blabla-ffjg]

Trump needs to take the position and "he might" I want to see the Left have a major meltdown

[francescruz]

He will be better, then the last witch 🧹😆🙄😊