In a recent development in the House of Representatives, two House Republicans have stood firm in their decision to vote against Rep. Jim Jordan for Speaker during the third ballot. Rep. Don Bacon emphasized their increasing support with each vote, expressing the need for a clean slate without any baggage. Bacon made it clear that his position was not driven by personal animosity towards Jordan. He pointed out that Jordan was associated with past election controversies, such as Steve Scalise’s and Kevin McCarthy’s, and suggested it was time to move on.

Meanwhile, Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, who reversed his vote against Jordan during this third ballot, indicated that the decision to step down ultimately rested with Jordan. Fitzpatrick’s vote against Jordan was seen as a significant shift in his stance. He believed that Patrick McHenry, the Speaker Pro Tempore, could be a suitable alternative. Both Bacon and Fitzpatrick praised McHenry, despite his disinterest in the position, suggesting he could provide stability for the upcoming year and the political cycle.

Fitzpatrick also criticized the eight Republicans and Democrats who had voted to remove former Speaker Kevin McCarthy from office. He argued that those responsible for this action should be held accountable. Fitzpatrick believed that McCarthy was unfairly punished for his efforts to put forth a bipartisan bill aimed at averting a government shutdown. He emphasized the negative message sent by punishing bipartisanship and called for accountability among those who voted in favor of McCarthy’s removal.

Fitzpatrick stressed the urgency of reopening the government, especially in the face of global challenges. He suggested an immediate vote to empower interim speaker Patrick McHenry, indicating that the focus should be on gaining the support of the entire House, rather than just the conference. Fitzpatrick’s preference was for a majority in the entire Congress, as it better represented the nation.

In response to the question of what he would say to Jordan if he chose to stay in the race, Fitzpatrick maintained that it was Jordan’s choice. While he wasn’t concerned about potential political repercussions, he expressed his belief that the standoff over the Speaker’s position was detrimental to the nation.

Congresswoman Jen Kiggans also voiced her opinion that it was time for Jordan to withdraw from the race, aligning with the sentiments of Rep. Don Bacon and Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick. The situation in the House of Representatives remains fluid, with the possibility of further opposition against Jordan in the event of another ballot.