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Following the removal of US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, former US President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed Congressman Jim Jordan for the position.

On his Truth Social app, Trump praised Jordan, stating he is “STRONG on Crime, Borders, our Military/Vets, & 2nd Amendment,” and added that Jordan “will be a GREAT Speaker of the House, & has my Complete & Total Endorsement!” This endorsement came shortly after Texas Republican Troy Nehls revealed Trump’s decision to support Jordan.

Currently, there are two contenders for the speakership: Representative Steve Scalise and Jim Jordan. With the Republicans holding a slim majority in the House of Representatives, a vote for the new speaker is anticipated on Wednesday following a closed-door forum for the candidates on Tuesday.

However, lingering tensions from McCarthy’s ousting may complicate the selection process. There were prior speculations about Trump’s willingness to step in as an interim leader if Republicans faced difficulties in choosing a successor. Still, Trump’s current legal challenges, including four impending criminal trials, could prevent such a move, as House Republican rules disallow a speaker under felony indictment.

Throughout the year, Trump’s influence over House Republicans has seen fluctuations. An example of this wavering influence was evident when Republicans hesitated to elect McCarthy as speaker despite Trump’s endorsement, only confirming him after three days and 15 voting rounds.