Pressure Mounts After Jordan Fails to Win Gavel on 2nd Bid

Mr. Jordan’s campaign lost momentum as more Republicans deserted on the second ballot, casting further doubt on his electability.

Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) walks off the floor as the House meets to elect a new speaker at the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington on Oct. 17, 2023. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

The House of Representatives remains without a speaker as Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) failed to receive a majority on a second ballot, cast on Oct. 18.

Mr. Jordan received 199 Republican votes, one fewer than the previous ballot and 18 short of the number needed to elect him. Also, 22 Republicans refused to vote for Mr. Jordan, two more than on the previous ballot a day earlier, signaling that his already lumbering campaign is losing momentum.