Majority Leader Steve Scalise’s nomination as the GOP candidate for the speaker’s gavel means that his current job could open up, and lawmakers are lining up to replace him.

Two candidates have materialized to replace Mr. Scalise, Louisiana Republican. 

Rep. Kevin Hern and Majority Whip Tom Emmer are eying the majority leader position in the conference. Both lawmakers had previously toyed with a run for the speaker’s gavel, but opted not to.

Mr. Hern of Oklahoma formally announced his bid for the job in a letter to his GOP colleagues shortly after a closed-door vote in which the conference nominated Mr. Scalise for speaker.

Mr. Hern touted his business experience outside of Congress and credentials as chair of the Republican Study Committee — the largest conservative caucus in the House — as prime selling points for the leadership position. He noted that he’s played a key role in advancing “strong conservative policies to guide” the GOP majority as chair of the caucus. 

“When my dear friend Steve is sworn in as Speaker, our Conference can finally get back to the work our constituents sent us here to do,” Mr. Hern said. “We need a Majority Leader who will work alongside our Speaker to help move this Conference past the events of the last ten days.”

SEE ALSO: House Republicans pick Steve Scalise for speaker

Mr. Emmer of Minnesota also is expected to run for majority leader. He has not made a formal announcement.

A source familiar with the situation told The Washington Times that Mr. Emmer was making calls to other lawmakers about seeking the position.

• Alex Miller can be reached at amiller@washingtontimes.com.