Webster in open Speaker race as Majority Leader withdraws

As the U.S. House of Representatives majority leader, analysts and pundits pegged Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R - California) as the successor to Rep. John Boehner (R - Ohio) for speaker of the House.

But when House Republicans gathered to make a nomination Oct. 8, McCarthy announced that he was withdrawing as a candidate and suggested delaying the vote. Boehner, still acting speaker until his resignation takes effect Oct. 30, granted the delay.

Among several emerging candidates for the Republican nomination for speaker is West Orange's Rep. Daniel Webster, who represents District 10.

Political insiders have reported certain factions of the Republican Party as upset with Boehner's leadership and determined to undermine the bid of McCarthy, considered a Boehner ally. These factions had promised instead to support Webster, who challenged Boehner's speakership early this year.

Republicans must decide on an official nominee by Oct. 29, when the vote for the new speaker will happen. Democrat Nancy Pelosi (California) is considered the favorite for her party's nomination.

Fears within the Republican Party include failing to get a 218-vote majority for the official nominee, which could prompt multiple votes and a possibility of the Democratic nominee being elected.