US President Donald Trump’s close ally Jim Jordan has been elected the new Republican leader in the House of Representatives following the party’s devastating defeat in the 2026 midterm elections.
The Ohio congressman defeated Republican Majority Leader Steve Scalise in a secret ballot on Tuesday, November 10, securing 106 votes against Scalise’s 73. His victory signals a major leadership shake-up as Republicans prepare to lose control of Congress.
Jordan, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, will lead House Republicans in the minority when the new Congress begins in January 2027.
He will succeed House Speaker Mike Johnson as the party’s House leader. Johnson announced his decision to step down from leadership following Republican losses in both chambers of Congress.
Jordan is known for his confrontational political style and strong support for Trump. He helped establish the conservative House Freedom Caucus and has represented Ohio since 2007.
His election suggests that Republicans favour an aggressive opposition strategy rather than a more moderate political approach.
Both Jordan and Scalise maintain close relationships with Trump. However, the president declined to endorse either candidate during the leadership contest.
The contest also revived memories of the 2023 Republican leadership struggle, when both lawmakers unsuccessfully sought the House speakership following Kevin McCarthy’s removal.
Meanwhile, Senate Republicans re-elected John Thune as their leader after internal disagreements over the party’s future direction.
Jordan now faces the challenge of rebuilding Republican unity while confronting an incoming Democratic majority.
His leadership could shape congressional investigations, political battles and Trump’s remaining two years in the White House.
