Speaker John Boehner announces leadership elections to be held next week, shortening window for opposition to organize

(Image credit: Alex Wong/Getty Images)

Less than a week ago, House Speaker John Boehner announced his unexpected retirement from Congress; on Wednesday, he followed up by setting the date for elections that will choose both his replacement as well as the next majority leader.

"After consulting with our conference, a large majority of our members have made clear they want these elections held next week," Boehner said in a written statement. "With their considerations in mind, the House leadership elections will take place on Thursday, October 8."

Boehner's last day in Congress is October 30. Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) has so far been the favorite to take over the speakership in Boehner's wake, and the short notice between Boehner's resignation and the election may help ensure that, as opposition now has less time to organize. More uncertain is the House majority leader race, in which Rep. Steve Scalise (R-La.) and Budget Chairman Tom Price (R-Ga.) are going head-to-head, even while some Republicans hastily search for a third candidate to throw into the mix.

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Jeva Lange was the executive editor at TheWeek.com. She formerly served as The Week's deputy editor and culture critic. She is also a contributor to Screen Slate, and her writing has appeared in The New York Daily News, The Awl, Vice, and Gothamist, among other publications. Jeva lives in New York City. Follow her on Twitter.