WASHINGTON — Rep. Jim Jordan joined Houston Gaines at a campaign reception in Oconee County, throwing his weight behind the Georgia Republican in one of the fall's tighter House races.
The Ohio congressman appeared Friday at the event in Watkinsville, signaling his direct involvement in the competitive 10th Congressional District race as November approaches. Gaines, a state representative since 2019, won the GOP primary and now faces Democrat Pamela DeLancy.
The district became open after Rep. Mike Collins decided to run for U.S. Senate instead of seeking reelection to his House seat. The 10th covers Athens and parts of northeast and central Georgia.
Jordan's appearance underscores his standing among House Republicans looking to protect their majority. House Speaker Mike Johnson also backs Gaines.
Jordan's campaign moves come as Republicans speculate about his interest in a senior leadership post. If the party loses control of the chamber next year, the 62-year-old congressman is considered likely to pursue the GOP leader role—a position he has sought before.
