capacity to serve as speaker while undergoing chemotherapy, highlighting that his doctors have cleared him to run.— has been responding to treatment "phenomenally well," with his medical team reducing the months of chemo he has to undergo as a result, according to two sources familiar.
Scalise has long been viewed as the likely successor to former Speaker Kevin McCarthy , but some members are concerned about his recent diagnosis."No one loves Steve Scalise more than Jennifer, his wife, and Jennifer says as a family they decided to run for Speaker," said Rep. Tony Gonzales said. "That tells me all I need to know about Steve's health."
"Steve's word is good. I trust him when he says that he is feeling good, has consulted with his doctors, and is up to the job," said Rep. Ashley Hinson.Despite his assurances, some within the conference have voiced that they see it as a factor in the race. "I was honest with Scalise. His health is an issue. I don't want somebody that's going to deteriorate on the job. This is a tough job," Rep. Ralph Norman told reporters on Thursday.
"I like Steve Scalise. He's a friend. He's someone that I support. But cancer is very serious," said Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene .