Say hello to Speaker Paul Ryan: House Freedom Caucus lends its support

The ultra-conservative Freedom Caucus' backing all but ensures Ryan will win Congress' top job

Published October 22, 2015 12:10AM (EDT)

  (J. Scott Applewhite)
(J. Scott Applewhite)

The hardline House Freedom Caucus says it is supporting Rep. Paul Ryan for speaker of the House, all but guaranteeing he'll get the job.

The decision from the group of around three dozen rebellious conservatives held off on an official endorsement.

Support from the group was not certain since they've repeatedly opposed GOP leaders and pushed the current speaker, John Boehner, to announce his resignation.

Several members of the group had raised concerns about Ryan. But after meeting behind closed doors Wednesday night the lawmakers emerged to say they would support him.

Ryan, the GOP's former vice presidential nominee, did not want to run for speaker but yielded to entreaties from party leaders and said he would — if he could gather consensus support.


By Erica Werner

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House Freedom Caucus Paul Ryan Speaker Of The House U.s. House Of Representatives