House Republicans to elect new Trump-era leadership with majority still undecided

House Republicans are gearing up for leadership elections in the next Congress, with Speaker Mike Johnson, Majority Leader Steve Scalise, and Majority Whip Tom Emmer all running for their current roles uncontested. National Republican Congressional Committee Chair Richard Hudson is also seeking another term.

But the real competition lies in the races for the No. 5 and No. 6 House GOP leadership positions. Three members – Reps. Erin Houchin, Kat Cammack, and Lisa McClain – are vying for the House GOP conference chair role, which oversees messaging and conference-wide meetings. Meanwhile, Rep. Elise Stefanik is stepping down as House GOP Conference Chair after being selected as an ambassador to the United Nations in the new Trump administration.

In addition, two Republicans are competing for the role of House GOP Policy Committee Chair. Republican Study Committee Chair Kevin Hern is challenging current Policy Committee Chair Gary Palmer. Hern, who is term-limited in his current position, has been actively campaigning for the role, with his staff distributing fliers endorsing his candidacy.

While the leadership elections are expected to proceed smoothly, Speaker Johnson will need to secure the support of hard-line Republican skeptics to win the gavel again in the House-wide vote for speaker in January. With Republicans projected to maintain a slim majority, Johnson cannot afford dissent if he hopes to avoid a prolonged and contentious vote for speaker.

Ultimately, the House Republicans are focused on consolidating power and preparing for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the next Congress. As they gather behind closed doors to elect their leaders, the party is positioning itself for a unified and effective leadership team to navigate the legislative landscape and advance their agenda.