Jim Jordan elected House Republican leader after party's midterm defeat

House Republicans have chosen Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) as their new minority leader, a significant shift in the GOP conference leadership. This election, held via a confidential ballot, saw Jordan defeat Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.), who had held the No. 2 position since 2014. Jordan's triumph highlights the GOP's desire for a more combative approach as they prepare to serve in the minority.

Both candidates entered the race with confidence, with Jordan garnering support from the conference's most conservative members and Scalise leveraging his extensive connections and leadership experience. Jordan's rise marks a notable turnaround for a conservative dissenter who has historically criticized the Republican establishment, but is now a staunch ally of President Trump.

As the new minority leader, Jordan faces the challenge of uniting a divided Republican conference and steering the party towards regaining the House majority in the 2028 elections.