Jim Jordan Says He’ll Step Down as Judiciary Chair, Won’t Seek Oversight Post

Jimmy ParkerSeptember 14, 20262

Jordan Makes His Committee Plans Clear

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) says he has no plans to return to leadership of either the Judiciary or Oversight committees. Jordan has served as the top Republican on Judiciary since becoming ranking member in March 2020. He took over as chairman in January 2023 after Republicans regained control of the House. Jordan is now term-limited as Judiciary’s top Republican and, unlike some other Republicans, does not plan to seek a waiver.

Oversight Is Not His Backup Plan

Jordan also ruled out returning to the Oversight Committee. He served as its ranking member for one year beginning in 2019, before moving into the top Republican role on Judiciary. He could serve at least two more terms as Oversight chairman or ranking member. Still, when asked whether he planned to return, Jordan answered, “No, I don’t plan to do that. There’s other people who are very interested in Oversight.”

At least five Republican lawmakers are likely contenders for Oversight leadership, including Reps. Brandon Gill of Texas and Tim Burchett of Tennessee, according to Punchbowl News.

His Attention Is on Winning the Majority

In an interview with Politico last week at the RNC midterm convention in Dallas, Jordan was asked whether he would continue serving in Congress without a leadership position. He said he is still running for office and plans to “go represent the people of the fourth district.”

Jordan was also asked whether he might challenge Speaker Mike Johnson if Republicans retain control of the House. His answer was direct: “No, I’m focused on winning, plain and simple, focus on winning the majority.” When asked about his next move, Jordan joked that he had “three more interviews.”

A New Judiciary Contest Is Already Underway

After Jordan confirmed that he would not seek another term as Judiciary chairman, Rep. Laurel Lee (R-Fla.) announced her bid for the top spot. Jordan explained his decision simply: “I just want to help—I just want us to win.” For now, he says his focus is winning the majority and continuing to represent Ohio’s Fourth District.