GOP Rep Derrick Van Orden Visits Israel Amid Uncertain Speaker Election

Van Orden's unexpected departure complicates Rep. Jim Jordan's path to Speakership, while intended trip to Israel serves as a fulfillment to a promise made to the Jewish community to assist them in crisis situations following recent regional conflict.

GOP Rep. Derrick Van Orden has unexpectedly visited Israel, a trip that complicates Rep. Jim Jordan's bid for Speaker, as Van Orden's vote will be absent in the ongoing Speaker election.
Van Orden, a former Navy Seal, has committed to assisting the Jewish community in crisis following a recent regional conflict, a promise he made during his military service.
During his stay in Israel, Van Orden plans to visit medical facilities, citizens, and both government and military officials to fully comprehend the situation on the ground.
Van Orden has been critical of the Biden administration's handling of the recent Israel-Hamas war, expressing frustration during a closed briefing, and arguing for stronger support for Israel.
Despite Van Orden's absence, the first Speaker vote resulted in Jordan falling well short of the necessary support, leaving the GOP plans uncertain for the future.