Byron Donalds Emerges as Alternative Candidate for House Speaker

Hard-Line Republicans Back Florida Congressman

WEB Florida Republican Congressman Byron Donalds won 20 votes in the race for House speaker as Kevin McCarthy failed again to secure a majority. The group of hard-line Republicans standing firm in opposing Rep Kevin McCarthys bid for speaker has coalesced around an alternative. Byon Donalds is running to become House majority leader, a spokesperson for the Florida congressman said.

A Three-Way Race

The announcement means there could be a three-way race between McCarthy, Donalds, and a third candidate if neither candidate wins a majority of votes.

Donalds' Past Votes

On January 3, 2023, Donalds received one vote in the 118th Congress's first election for Speaker of the House from Chip Roy. Donalds voted for Kevin McCarthy on the first two ballots, then for Jim Jordan.

Historic Potential

One of two Black Republicans in the House, 44-year-old Donalds would make history were he elected, becoming the first Black speaker of the house.

Who is Byron Donalds?

Byron Donalds, a native of Brooklyn, New York, is a conservative Republican who has served as the U.S. Representative for Florida's 19th congressional district since 2021. Donalds is a member of the House Freedom Caucus, a group of conservative Republicans who often oppose leadership. He is an outspoken opponent of big government, abortion, and illegal immigration.

Conclusion

As the race for House speaker remains unresolved, Byron Donalds has emerged as a viable alternative candidate. His nomination is a testament to the growing division within the Republican party between moderate and conservative members. It remains to be seen whether Donalds can win enough support to become the first Black speaker of the house, but his candidacy has undoubtedly shaken up the race and made it even more unpredictable.