TL/DR –
Representative Steve Scalise is making a bid for the role of speaker in the House, despite recently being diagnosed with blood cancer. Scalise, who is known for his fundraising abilities, is considered to be a potential unifying figure for the Republicans in a time of division following the ouster of Kevin McCarthy. However, his past comments, including comparing himself to David Duke, and conservative views could affect his chances in a face-off against Representative Jim Jordan, who is backed by Donald Trump.
Steve Scalise’s Bid for House Speaker Amidst Internal GOP Challenges
Harriet M. Hageman’s 2022 primary challenge against Liz Cheney of Wyoming quickly received support from House Republican leaders. However, Representative Steve Scalise of Louisiana, the No. 2 Republican, remained silent, adhering to his 11th Commandment: “Thou shalt not speak ill of another Republican.” He endorsed Ms. Hageman only after her victory over Ms. Cheney.
Scalise, a longstanding rival of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy, is currently campaigning for the Speaker’s position. His supporters, including Representative Lance Gooden of Texas, believe he can unify the Republicans who are divided and demoralized after McCarthy’s ousting last week.
Despite his recent blood cancer diagnosis, Scalise is pushing forward for the speakership, claiming he can outperform his contender, Representative Jim Jordan of Ohio. His political journey from a deeply conservative Republican representing Louisiana’s First Congressional District, a stronghold of the fossil fuel industry and conservatism, to his current bid for Speaker has been marked with controversy and success alike.
Scalise’s political career saw him supporting the repeal of a 40-year ban on oil exports and playing a significant role in passing Republicans’ $1.5 trillion tax cut law, which primarily benefited big corporations, multimillionaires, and other wealthy individuals. Despite voting to remove Confederate statues from the U.S. Capitol, breaking the majority of his party’s stance, Scalise supported overturning the 2020 election results.
His personal life has been marked by hardship and resilience. In 2017, Scalise was critically injured during a shooting at a Republican congressional baseball practice. After multiple surgeries and months of rehabilitation to relearn how to walk, Scalise returned to the Capitol triumphant, declaring, “I’m definitely a living example that miracles really do happen.” With the help of a specially designed shoe, Scalise walks normally today.
Regardless of his health challenges, Scalise continues to assure his colleagues that he is fit to undertake the demanding role of Speaker. His treatment for the rare form of blood cancer is reportedly progressing better than anticipated, and his wife and doctors agree that he is healthy enough for this challenge.
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