After former President Donald Trump publicly endorsed GOP Leader Kevin McCarthy for Speaker of the House on Wednesday, urging Republicans to “vote for Kevin” and “get the deal done,” some still remain opposed, raising concerns. questions about Trump’s waning influence on Capitol Hill amid his third presidential campaign.
Longtime Trump supporter Matt Gaetz is one of 20 House Republicans who oppose McCarthy’s candidacy. He dismissed the former president’s effort, calling it “sad”.
Trump’s statement also didn’t move Rep. Ralph Norman, an aide to the lawmaker told CNN. “He respects Mr. Trump’s opinion on the matter, but remains unconvinced. Rep. McCarthy is unwilling to take meaningful action to balance the budget.”
“If Matt Gaetz is ignoring you, that’s not a good sign,” said a Trump ally working on the 2024 campaign.
Trump has made calls on McCarthy’s behalf over the past 24 hours in an attempt to break the conservative blockade against him, but his efforts have so far been in vain, the ally added.
A lawmaker who spoke with Trump on Tuesday night suggested the former president should run for president himself, according to a person briefed on the call. Trump balked and continued to push this person to support McCarthy, saying he would be a strong supporter of “America First.”
