After ambiguous announcement: McCarthy does not want reappointment as chairman Hamas attack on Israel puts pressure on Joe Biden and the Democrats

According to media reports, US House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who was ousted last week, will not seek re-election for the post. The Republican had asked his fellow party members not to nominate him, broadcaster CNN reported on Tuesday evening (local time). He will support the person his group can agree on. He had previously indicated that he would no longer rule out running for office again.

The 58-year-old was voted out as chairman of the House of Representatives last week. In addition to the Democrats, eight Republican members also voted in favor of his removal. It was the first time in American history that someone was removed from this position. Afterwards, McCarthy announced that he would no longer be available.

The Republicans met behind closed doors on Tuesday evening (local time) to hold a kind of candidate forum. An internal vote was scheduled for Wednesday. There is still no date for the official vote in the House of Representatives among all MPs. After McCarthy was voted out, far-right Jim Jordan and more moderate Steve Scalise announced their candidacies last week. They must present their views at the candidate forum.

To be elected to the third most important office in the US government, after president and vice president, an absolute majority is required among the members of the House of Representatives present. The Republicans only have a very narrow majority in the Chamber, so a handful of dissenters are enough to block a candidacy. When he was elected in January, McCarthy could not secure such a majority until the 15th round. (sda/dpa)