Jim Jordan, Byron Donalds frontrunners to replace McCarthy as new House speaker

After Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) was ousted from the speakership on Tuesday, names of Republicans to replace him are already circulating the Beltway.

Politico reported late Tuesday evening that Rep Jim Jordan (R-OH) is considering a candidacy and is “…having conversations with House GOP allies.” He was among the names floated during the epic 15 vote showdown to elect McCarthy to the post in January.

Jordan was one of McCarthy's biggest defenders among conservatives.

The outlet also reported that Rep. Kevin Hern (R-OK), the head of the Republican Study Committee, and Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) are both gauging support before deciding whether or not to jump into the fray.

Another name gaining traction is Rep Byron Donalds (R-FL). He was also nominated in January during the speaker race.

Seven Republicans led by Rep Matt Gaetz (R-FL) joined all Democrats in voting to oust McCarthy on Tuesday. 

Rep. Patrick McHenry, (R-NC) is temporarily replacing McCarthy in presiding over the House until a new speaker is elected.

McCarthy stated on Tuesday that he would not seek the gavel again.

Rep. Greg Murphy (R-NC) told Fox News that there will be a candidate forum on Tuesday followed by a vote on Wednesday to select a new speaker.