Following Speaker Mike Johnson’s decision to step back from leadership, two leading figures in the House Republican Party, Jim Jordan and Steve Scalise, have entered the race to become the next GOP conference leader.
The contest arises after significant Republican losses in the midterm elections, resulting in the transfer of power to Democrats in both the House and Senate.
Johnson’s announcement prompted these two recognizable party figures to pursue the leadership role, creating a competitive atmosphere in the Republican conference.
Reportedly, Jordan and Scalise were the first candidates to respond to Johnson’s resignation from the minority leader position, adding another layer of tension to the ongoing leadership dynamics.
Jordan, a staunch ally of Donald Trump, has made his mark as a pointed conservative voice in Congress.
As the chair of the House Judiciary Committee, he has led several investigations into the Biden administration and allegations surrounding federal misconduct.
JUST IN: JIM JORDAN and STEVE SCALISE are running for House GOP Minority Leader, Mike Johnson is NOT — Punchbowl
Senate Leadership election is also coming up, and John Thune is expected to seek that position as well
Republicans have a LOT of work to do drawing the contrast and repairing for 2028.
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) November 4, 2026
Jordan advocates for stricter immigration controls, reduced federal budgets, and increased accountability for government entities.
This leadership bid showcases his ambition for one of the House’s most influential roles.
POLL: Do You Trust Blue States To Conduct Fair Elections?
Following the removal of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy in October 2023, Jordan sought the position but lacked sufficient support from Republican peers.
Conversely, Scalise is entering this race with a wealth of experience managing the Republican conference.
Having served previously as House majority leader under McCarthy and Johnson, he has built strong connections across the party’s factions.
He also aimed for the speakership after McCarthy’s ousting and participated in an initial contest against Jordan but withdrew due to insufficient backing.
Now, Scalise and Jordan are set to clash again for the GOP’s top leadership post as the party prepares to operate as the minority.
The implications of this leadership battle go beyond mere internal dynamics.
RELATED: NEW: White House Issues Ominous ‘PSA’ After Midterm Defeat
The next House Republican leader will play a crucial role in strategizing opposition to Democratic initiatives, especially as the Democrats gain control over both chambers.
This position will also entail defending Trump’s presidency against congressional investigations.
Although Congress may have flipped to Democratic control, Trump remains in the White House with his constitutional powers intact.
This situation could necessitate collaboration between Trump and the House GOP leadership in the remaining years of his term.
Jordan and Scalise each bring unique strengths to this leadership contest. Jordan relies on his investigation efforts and ties with conservative members, while Scalise has navigated legislative strategy and internal negotiations for years.
The upcoming leadership election offers House Republicans a chance to reassess their strategies after recent defeats and prepare for the next election cycle.
Mike Johnson’s exit from the leadership race signifies a significant shift for the Republican conference, which has faced internal strife while managing narrow majorities.
With his decision, Republicans are now confronted with a choice between two experienced lawmakers who have already vie for significant leadership roles.
