U.S. Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-Amarillo) has fully committed to backing California Rep. Kevin McCarthy for House Speaker, breaking with some conservatives who are opposing McCarthy’s election.
According to a report from The Texan, Jackson penned a statement declaring his support for McCarthy, and saying that Republicans attempting to oppose the Californian are “wast[ing] time.”
“Kevin McCarthy has my vote on the first ballot and every ballot until he’s elected Speaker,” Jackson wrote. “My colleagues can waste time and keep those gavels out of Republican hands longer than necessary or they can join the overwhelming majority of our conference, unite behind Kevin and get to work for their constituents. My decision is final.”
Jackson’s decision to unequivocally back McCarthy for speaker is in opposition to some conservatives who have attempted to delay McCarthy’s election. U.S. Rep. Chip Roy (R-Austin) recently signed a letter with a number of other conservative congress members calling for a reform in House rules that would put more pressure on McCarthy to back conservative priorities.