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The unsuccessful attempt by Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) to secure the Speaker’s position has intensified calls within the House to consider a motion that would enhance the authority of the speaker pro tempore.

Prior to Jordan’s defeat, his Republican colleague from Ohio, Rep. David Joyce, had proposed a motion seeking to formally assign Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.) as the speaker pro tempore, thereby extending the responsibilities currently associated with his interim appointment.

Jordan himself advocated for a decision on this issue, emphasizing the urgency of resolving leadership ambiguity. “We need to determine today whether we’ll have a Republican Speaker or if we’ll proceed with the resolution concerning the Speaker pro tempore. It’s crucial that we address both matters; the time for a definitive answer has come,” Jordan asserted before the vote.

He further stressed the necessity for operational governance, noting, “We’ve been in this stalemate for two weeks. The American public expects a functioning government, so let’s resolve these questions.”

This proposition emerges amidst a prolonged Speaker selection process, now stretching beyond two weeks, with the Republican party still far from unanimous agreement. Jordan received 199 Republican endorsements on Tuesday but faced opposition from 22 members of his party, a slight increase from the day before.

“In the absence of a House Speaker for two weeks and no evident contender securing 217 votes within the Republican caucus, it’s imperative to explore alternative, practical solutions. Elevating Patrick McHenry to Speaker Pro Tempore allows us to prioritize our commitment to Israel while the search for a permanent Speaker continues,” Joyce articulated in a pre-vote statement.

Initiating a formal vote to position McHenry as speaker pro tempore, as opposed to his current provisional status, would significantly amplify his legislative influence. Nonetheless, the scope of this enhanced authority might be subject to certain limitations, depending on whether the voting lawmakers opt to impose specific constraints, such as defining particular prerogatives or setting a term limit for the role.

Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.), a leading member of the House Rules Committee, conveyed willingness to consider McHenry or another suitable Republican for this provisional role.