Likely House Speaker Candidate Bows Out: ‘The Need For Unity Comes First’

Rumored House Speaker hopeful Rep. Kevin Hern (R-OK) released a statement Saturday morning, calling for unity among Republicans and announcing his intention to bow out of the race.

Hern, whose name was floated numerous times alongside declared candidates Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH) and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA), explained that he had considered the opportunity but had ultimately come to the conclusion that a three-way race for the Speaker’s gavel would only serve to divide the party more.

“I’ve been on the phone 50+ hours with Republican members and what’s clear is we all want UNITY,” Hern said in a post on X. “I believe a three-man race for Speaker will create even more division and make it harder to elect a Speaker.”

I’ve been on the phone 50+ hours with Republican members and what’s clear is we all want UNITY.

I believe a three-man race for Speaker will create even more division and make it harder to elect a Speaker.

Read my letter here: pic.twitter.com/Sea4gPCS94

— Congressman Kevin Hern (@repkevinhern) October 7, 2023

“I called, texted or met in-person with all 221 members of the House Republican Conference, asking each member what they want to see in the next Speaker and how we can move forward as a Majority,” Hern’s statement read in part. “The overwhelming response I heard from you is that we must unify and come out of this situation stronger as a Majority. While many of you have emphasized the necessity for new blood in our leadership, the need for unity comes first and foremost.”

Hern went on to say that he was absolutely ready to support either Jordan or Scalise — both of whom he referred to as “good friends” and “proven leaders” — as they moved forward.

“Now is the time to put the future of our nation first because a divided majority will result in an even more fractured country,” Hern continued. “This is bigger than me or any one person.”

Hern concluded with a call to Republicans to commit to come together and rally behind a candidate who could command 217 votes in order to win the speakership.