House Republicans Struggle for Unity in Speaker Battle

House Republicans vying for the speakership have signed a pledge aimed at ensuring the next speaker-designate can rally 217 votes on the floor. The pledge, spearheaded by Rep. Mike Flood (R-Neb.), requires members to vote "yea" for whoever wins the House Republican conference's backing in the initial secret-ballot election. Five of the announced candidates have committed to the pledge, while two have not yet indicated support. Lawmakers have until Sunday to make their candidacy official before a candidate forum and a GOP Conference vote on Tuesday.