House enters third week without speaker as nine Republicans vie for gavel

A crowded field of Republicans are vying to earn the support of their conference to wield the gavel, throwing the chamber into even more uncertainty after three weeks without a speaker.

The conference is searching for a new speaker nominee after Rep. Jim Jordan on Friday became the latest to exit the race. The chamber has been without a speaker since House Republicans ousted Rep. Kevin McCarthy earlier this month.

Eight House Republicans are running for the position, including GOP Whip Tom Emmer, who is endorsed by McCarthy. Emmer has moved to lock in support across the ideological and geographic spectrum in the conference, giving him what many House Republicans believe is an advantage, according to GOP sources. He could face an uphill battle, however, against allies of former President Donald Trump who have been quick to criticize Emmer for voting to certify the 2020 election.

The speaker hopefuls spent the weekend working the phones to win their conference's support ahead of a candidate forum Monday evening and secret-ballot election Tuesday.

Emmer spoke with Trump by phone over the weekend, a source familiar with the matter told CNN, and Emmer touted his "strong working relationship" with the former president on social media Monday.

"Thank you, Mr. President," Emmer posted on X, alongside a video clip of Trump saying he's "always" gotten along with Emmer. "If my colleagues elect me Speaker of the House, I look forward to continuing our strong working relationship."

Texas Rep. Pete Sessions, another candidate for speaker, said Monday that he also spoke with Trump about his bid.