Backers of Rep. Jim Jordan’s (R-Ohio) campaign for the position of House Speaker have directed their efforts toward the spouse of a Republican legislator who is against Jordan’s bid. They have sent her undisclosed text messages and emails, cautioning that her husband may face removal from Congress if he does not back Jordan’s decision to run for office.
“Why is your husband causing chaos by not supporting Jim Jordan? I thought he was a team player,” one text sent to Angie Bacon, the spouse of Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.) said.
Angie Bacon replied with, “Who is this???”
“Your husband will not hold any political office ever again. What a disappointment and failure he is,” according to the message she received.
Angie Bacon responded, “He has more courage than you. You won’t put your name to your statements.”
On Tuesday, Rep. Don Bacon was among the 20 Republicans who cast their votes against Jim Jordan’s bid for Speaker during the initial House of Representatives’ full-ballot vote. Jordan, serving as the House Judiciary Committee chair, required 217 votes to secure the Speaker’s position, yet he garnered backing from only 200 members.
Bacon, who supported Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) during Tuesday’s vote, shared with Politico that while Jim has been amicable in personal interactions, his larger group has been pursuing an aggressive strategy. He also mentioned receiving calls from Republican leaders in Nebraska urging him to vote for Jordan. Bacon is part of a group of GOP legislators who have voiced their discontent regarding the pressure exerted by Jordan’s backers.
According to multiple House Republicans interviewed by Politico, they do not attribute the campaign of harassment directly to Jordan. The Ohio Republican himself urged an end to the attacks following his unsuccessful election bid.
