Georgia Rep. Austin Scott discusses House Republicans’ efforts to elect a speaker and explains his support for Jim Jordan. The House Democrats’ campaign arm sent a memo to blue members with messaging guidance on “GOP extremism” under a potential speakership helmed by current House Judiciary Committee chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio. The memo, obtained by Digital, highlights concerns about Jordan’s far-right priorities and the negative impact they could have on working families, democratic norms, and relationships with allies.
The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) memo emphasizes that a Speaker Jordan would usher in extremism and far-right policies in the House of Representatives. It urges the Democratic caucus to make voters aware of how extreme Congressman Jordan is and how his speakership could be detrimental to the country. The memo also reveals that if Jordan fails to secure the speakership, there are several GOP members that Democrats would support instead.
Jim Jordan emerged as the GOP nominee for speaker after House Majority Leader Steve Scalise dropped out of the race. The messaging guidance provided to Democrat members includes talking points against a Jordan speakership, such as the absence of moderates in the Republican conference capable of standing up to the far right. It also suggests that every Republican who votes for Jordan is simply following Trump’s orders and highlights Jordan’s lack of bipartisanship.
The memo further raises concerns about Jordan’s involvement in controversies, including his attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election and his refusal to comply with subpoenas related to the January 6 insurrection. It also accuses Jordan of espousing conspiracy theories and being a founding member of the far-right House Freedom Caucus, known for its obstructionist approach to comprehensive immigration reform and healthcare legislation.
While the DCCC did not immediately respond to Digital’s request for comment on the memo, the Democratic messaging strategy comes as Jordan faces the first expected ballot on his bid for the speaker’s position. Jordan has been actively seeking support for his candidacy, but the outcome remains uncertain.
The article concludes by introducing Houston Keene as a politics writer for Digital and provides contact information for story tips and updates on the 2024 campaign trail.
In conclusion, House Democrats are sounding the alarm on potential GOP extremism under a speakership led by Jim Jordan. The memo highlights concerns about Jordan’s far-right priorities, lack of bipartisanship, and involvement in controversies. As the House prepares for the first expected ballot on Jordan’s bid for speaker, the outcome remains uncertain.
