WASHINGTON, Oct. 22 (UPI) — Rep. Paul Ryan won backing from the hard-line conservative House Freedom Caucus in support of his bid for House speaker, ensuring the Republican from Wisconsin will have enough votes to secure the post next week.
Ryan secured support from about two-thirds of the group’s 40 staunch conservatives to replace retiring Speaker John Boehner. While it was not an official endorsement, the “supermajority” vote indicates Ryan will move forward in his attempt to bring together the deep divide among Republicans. It also indicates a willingness from House Republicans to work together.
Ryan, 45, outlined Tuesday a series of conditions under which he would consider the speakership, including unity among the warring factions in the House.
“I’m grateful for the support of a supermajority of the House Freedom Caucus,” Ryan said on Twitter. “I look forward to hearing from the other two caucuses by the end of the week, but I believe this is a positive step toward a unified Republican team.”
Ryan, chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, is expected to win support from the Tuesday Group of moderate Republicans and the Republican Study Committee, a longtime group within the House. Ryan said he will not announced his candidacy for the post until he receives full support and a commitment to working together.
Ryan has previously expressed reservations about taking the job, saying he is concerned about the divisiveness in the party and the effect such a position will have on his family. He has made it clear he could back out.
Republicans are scheduled to nominate a new speaker on Oct. 28. A vote by the full House is slated for Oct. 29.
