The problem now for the Republicans is that it appears possible that no one single candidate can unite their conference and be elected speaker with at least 218 votes. The division among them is a fractious split with different groups having their own priorities.

The race for the speaker of the House has descended into chaos. As we reported on 25 and 29 September, current Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-California) looked destined to move up to that position. Yesterday, however, he dropped out of the race during a Republican caucus meeting that was convened to nominate a candidate. The full House of Representatives votes for the speaker, but each party caucus nominates a candidate for the post. This is why the majority party nominee al...