Trump posts image of himself holding speaker’s gavel after McCarthy ouster

NEW YORK – Off the heels of California Republican Rep. Kevin McCarthy being ousted from his speakership due to Florida Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz’s efforts, former President Donald Trump has entertained calls for him to be elected the party’s next speaker.

Wednesday afternoon, Trump posted on Truth Social an image of himself holding the speaker’s gavel in front of an American flag, wearing a suit and “Make America Great Again” hat.

“We’ll do whatever’s best for the country and the Republican Party,” Trump said.

Continuing, the former president indicated he’s more focused on running for president and noted the GOP has some “great people” who can do a “great job” as speaker.

“A lot of people have asked me about it,” the former president said. “My focus is totally on [presidential election]. If I can help them during the process, I would do it.”

Trump posted the image hours after Georgia Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene posted the same image, saying Trump is her “choice” for speaker.

As of Wednesday afternoon, major Republicans who have launched speaker bids include Ohio Republican Rep. Jim Jordan and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La.

Gaetz, the Florida Republican who spearheaded the effort, said Jordan would be a good option for speaker.

“My mentor Jim Jordan would be great!” he said.

Running for president in 2024, Trump has maintained a strong lead over all other Republicans in the field and clings to a narrow lead over President Joe Biden nationally.