On the heels of John Boehner's resignation Friday whispers are circling as to who will replace him as the Speaker of the House.
Several Republicans voiced their opinion that Kevin McCarthy, currently the Majority Leader of the House, would be a capable candidate.
"The conversation has been there for a long time that McCarthy would follow Boehner into the Speakership," fellow Republican Congressman David Valadao said.
"It's obvious that Kevin is the front runner for speaker, but if you notice he hasn't announced that he will be running for speaker," Volunteer Jesse Rojas with Kern County Young Republicans said.
In a statement from McCarthy's office, McCarthy said he is focused on supporting Boehner on his resignation.
Since I first came to Congress in 2007, John has been serving his constituents and his country with unparalleled passion. John has been a leader, mentor, and most of all friend throughout, and I learned not only from his experience but also from his unshakeable faith and principles. It takes profound humility to step down from a position of power, and John’s depth of character is unmatched.
“As our country has weathered difficult times at home and abroad, John has acted as a true statesman, always moving forward with the best interests of the American people close to his heart. He will be missed because there is simply no one else like him.
“Now is the time for our conference to focus on healing and unifying to face the challenges ahead and always do what is best for the American people."
Boehner addressed the rumors of his successor and offered advice to McCarthy, if he goes for the position, "His number one responsibility is to protect the institution... Secondly I'd tell him the same thing I've just told you. If you just do the right thing every day for the right reasons, the right things will happen."
McCarthy became the Majority Leader after Eric Cantor lost his congressional seat in 2014. Now that Boehner is stepping down, it looks as if history may repeat itself, republicans say.
