Rep Steve Scalise (R) - LA
Louisiana Congressman Steve Scalise has thrown his hat in the ring to be considered the next Speaker of the House. UNO Political Science Professor Dr. Ed Chervenak said it’s no surprise the House Majority Leader wants to move up the ranks.
“He’s had his eye on that position for a while and it will be difficult I’m sure there’s going to be a lot of elbows thrown to get in the position to become the new Speaker,” said Chervenak.
Chervenak said the promotion would be beneficial to the Bayou State because the Speaker could marshal legislation and has the ability to insert clauses in bills that could be advantageous for Louisiana.
Scalise announced his multiple myeloma diagnosis in August and fellow congressman Garrett Graves said Scalise needs to focus on his cancer battle instead because Speaker of the House is such a stressful job. Chervenak said despite the timing…
“This is the opportunity to get the speakership and so he’s got to go for it, he’s got to go into it full-time and put as much energy as he can into getting the position,” said Chervenak.
The rule that allows one House member to initiate a “motion to vacate” the Speaker, Chervenak said needs to be addressed as soon as possible because as long as it isn’t the lower chamber can easily be thrown into chaos…
“Republicans need to get their act together, they’re the majority party. They’re the ones who select the Speaker and get someone in that position so that the House can conduct its business,” said Chervenak.
Other Republicans who are interested in the position include Ohio Representative Jim Jordan and Oklahoma Congressman Kevin Hern.
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