Former US President Donald Trump has officially endorsed Congressman Jim Jordan as the potential replacement for the recently overthrown House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Trump made the announcement on his Truth Social app on Friday, stating that Jordan is strong on issues such as crime, borders, the military/veterans, and the Second Amendment. He also praised Jordan's family and expressed his belief that Jordan would be a great Speaker of the House.

This endorsement came shortly after Texas Republican Troy Nehls revealed on Thursday night that Trump had chosen to back Jordan's bid for the speakership. Currently, there are two Republican lawmakers vying for the position: Representative Steve Scalise, who was next in line after McCarthy, and Jim Jordan, a conservative from Ohio known for leading investigations into President Joe Biden's administration.

House Republicans, who hold a narrow 221-212 majority, are scheduled to hold a closed-door forum on Tuesday to hear from candidates interested in the speakership. It is a meeting that Trump has indicated he may attend. A vote is expected to take place the following day. However, the removal of McCarthy has left a trail of acrimony and resentment among House Republicans, which could make the nomination process for the new speaker quite challenging.

Jim Jordan has been a staunch ally of Donald Trump, and their relationship dates back to the Trump administration. In January 2021, Trump awarded Jordan the Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the US, in recognition of his loyalty and support. Trump's endorsement highlights Jordan's athletic background as a college wrestler and his education credentials.

Meanwhile, House Majority Whip Steve Scalise of Louisiana also announced his bid for the speakership on the same day as Jordan. The House, which has been in recess since McCarthy's removal, is set to vote on Tuesday to determine who will assume the role of speaker. During the historic vote to remove McCarthy, eight far-right Republicans joined forces with the Democrats, marking the first time in US history that a House speaker has been ousted in a no-confidence vote.

It is worth noting that some far-right Republicans have called for Trump himself to be nominated as House speaker. Although it is technically possible for a non-member of Congress to hold the position, the House has never had a non-member as speaker throughout its 234-year history.

As the House Republicans navigate through this period of transition, the endorsement from Trump may play a significant role in shaping the outcome of the speakership race. The unity and stability of the Republican Party will be crucial in maintaining their slim majority and effectively representing their constituents.