Jim Jordan Loses in Third Attempt Before Being Kicked out of the Race

Earlier today, Congressman Jim Jordan was defeated in his third attempt to become Speaker of the House. Immediately after, he vowed to continue. An hour later, his fellow Republicans voted to kick him out of the race.

It’s a fitting end to an ignominious story. Jordan has “served” in Congress for 16 years, has passed no legislation whatsoever, and has spent much more time in Fox News interviews than delivering materially beneficial results for his Ohio constituents.

Despite Donald Trump’s endorsement, Sean Hannity’s support, and even a feeble attempt by former Speaker Kevin McCarthy to defend Jordan’s legislative stature, the majority of his caucus voted to oust him in a secret ballot measure in a closed door conference, 122-86.

What exactly prompted Republicans to rescind their support of Jordan is unknown. Was it his puny record? Was it fear of elevating such an extreme figure at a time when Republican extremists have been repeatedly defeated at the ballot box? Was it, perhaps, the despicable pressure campaign waged by Jordan, Hannity, and others, which triggered an avalanche of death threats against his opponents and their families?

Perhaps it was all the above, since all the above are reasonable.

In the aftermath, a visibly defeated Jordan tried to put on a brave face, telling the press he wants to find the new Republican Speaker and “get back to work” for the American people.

Soon after, it was announced that Republicans wouldn’t get back to work, but would instead go home for the weekend.

Defeat is exhausting.

VC: MSNBC | Twitter.com