House Majority Leader Steve Scalise has announced his intention to run for the House Republican minority leader position following the party's losses in the 2026 midterm elections. This move sets the stage for a potential contest with House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, who is also expected to seek the role.
Two sources familiar with Scalise's intentions told Fox News Digital that his primary goal is to lead the conference back into the majority. His pitch emphasizes his experience as a "proven and tested leader" who is ready to tackle legislative and oversight challenges, highlighting his history of unifying Republicans.
Scalise has been a member of House GOP leadership for over a decade. However, his previous bid to succeed former Speaker Kevin McCarthy in October 2023 did not garner enough support for a full House vote.
The upcoming race for minority leader comes as Speaker Mike Johnson has reportedly informed his staff that he will not seek to lead the House GOP in the next Congress. Winning the minority leader position is generally considered less challenging than becoming speaker, as it requires a majority within the party caucus rather than a majority of the entire House.
Republicans experienced significant losses in the recent elections, leading some members to call for new leadership. One anonymous House GOP lawmaker expressed to Fox News Digital that "they should all step aside and let new people run."
If elected minority leader, Scalise would be tasked with defending former President Donald Trump during a period where House Democrats have indicated plans for extensive investigations into the president's business dealings, family, and allies. There are also discussions about potentially impeaching Cabinet officials.
Scalise has spent time campaigning across the country to support Republican House candidates and raise funds for the party. His supporters believe his coalition-building efforts and fundraising success will aid his candidacy. However, the recent election results present a significant test for the goodwill he has cultivated within the party.