House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) has recently announced his support for former President Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election. This endorsement aligns Scalise with other high-ranking Republican officials such as House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) and House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik (R-NY), who have also backed Trump.
Scalise expressed his endorsement on X (previously known as Twitter), stating his pride in supporting Trump, particularly in light of the challenges Americans are facing under President Joe Biden’s administration. He emphasized his eagerness to collaborate with Trump and a Republican-controlled Congress to address these issues.
In an interview with Fox News, Scalise highlighted Biden’s economic policies as a key reason for his endorsement. He cited increased gas prices, low housing affordability, high mortgage rates, soaring inflation, and rising interest rates as significant concerns under Biden’s presidency. In contrast, Scalise praised Trump’s previous tenure, asserting that American workers and families were prospering during his time in office. He described Trump as having a “proven track record” of effective leadership.
Scalise’s endorsement is notable as he joins at least 95 other sitting House Republicans who have publicly supported Trump. His endorsement comes at a critical juncture for GOP presidential hopefuls, with the Iowa caucus and New Hampshire primary approaching.
I am proud to endorse Donald Trump for president in 2024, and I look forward to working with President Trump and a Republican House and Senate to fight for those families who are struggling under the weight of Biden’s failed policies.https://t.co/FTmUcORccr
— Steve Scalise (@SteveScaliseGOP) January 2, 2024
However, Democrats have criticized Scalise’s decision, accusing the Republican party of prioritizing Trump’s agenda over American interests. Democratic National Committee (DNC) spokeswoman Sarafina Chitika commented that the endorsement demonstrates the GOP’s focus on forwarding Trump’s MAGA agenda and undermining freedoms.
Trump, who has been leading the GOP field for months, is on track to become the Republican Party’s presidential nominee. According to RealClearPolitics, Trump currently leads the Republican field with 51.3% support.
