It’s official: Paul Ryan has formally declared his candidacy for Speaker of the House.
From CNN:
“I never thought I’d be speaker,” Ryan said in a statement. “But I pledged to you that if I could be a unifying figure, then I would serve — I would go all in. After talking with so many of you, and hearing your words of encouragement, I believe we are ready to move forward as a one, united team. And I am ready and eager to be our speaker.”The speakership would be a dramatic career twist for the Wisconsin Republican, who was his party’s vice presidential nominee in 2012 and has repeatedly turned down pleas from colleagues to run for the post. He thoroughly enjoys his policy-heavy role as the chairman of the tax-writing Ways and Means Committee.
The AP first broke the news on Twitter:
Earlier today, Ryan secured a major victory against his detractors when Michigan Rep. Justin Amash publicly endorsed Ryan for the Speakership. Amash’s support came along with that of 70% of the House Freedom Caucus, which voted to support Ryan’s bid for the speakership.
Earlier this week, Ryan said that he would consent to a run for the speakership—if the party would unite around him.
Ryan is likely to be elected when the body votes next week.
Featured Image from The Hill
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