Jim Jordan defeats Scalise to lead House Republicans after midterm losses

House Republicans elected Ohio Rep. Jim Jordan as their minority leader, choosing him over Majority Leader Steve Scalise after Democrats’ sweeping midterm victory. Jordan, a conservative firebrand and longtime ally of President Trump, campaigned on a more combative approach and promised to keep the conference unified and challenge Democrats. Scalise emphasized his leadership experience, but Jordan’s victory reflected members’ desire for a change in direction as Republicans prepare to serve in the minority and seek to regain the House in 2028. Republicans now face the challenge of rebuilding after the historic electoral setback.