Congresswoman Hern Withdraws from Speaker Race, Endorses Mike Johnson

Rep. Kevin Hern, R-Okla., has dropped out of the race for speaker and instead endorsed Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La. Hern cited the need for unity and a focus on America's greatness as his reason for stepping aside. This leaves a five-person race for the position, with Johnson emerging as an early leader. The previous nominee, Rep. Tom Emmer, withdrew his bid after facing opposition from allies of former President Donald Trump and supporters of Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan. The Republican Party continues its search for a new speaker designate, with this being the fourth attempt since former Speaker Kevin McCarthy was removed from the position.