The mainstream faction has largely thrown their support behind Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) - who they see as a stabilizing force that can best collaborate with Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) in guiding must-pass bills through legislative intricacies. To these Senate Republicans, a rapid transition to Scalise's leadership is deemed imperative to appease voter apprehensions regarding the GOP's governing capabilities.

On Wednesday, McConnell expressed disappointment over the ouster of Kevin McCarthy (R-CA).

"The Speaker and I worked closely throughout his tenure, but I was particularly struck by his persistence. He literally willed the President of the United States to the negotiating table and kept coming back again and again until he had helped secure the nation's full faith and credit," he said on the Senate floor, praising McCarthy as "a partner I could trust to be honest and candid."

Conversely, MAGA-aligned populists are rallying behind Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH), who enjoys the robust endorsement of former President Trump. Jordan, championed as a "fighter" by his proponents, is praised for his unyielding stance against opposition and dedication to disrupting Washington's established order. His leadership symbolizes an assertive, defiant GOP, unafraid to engage in unbridled confrontations.

"Jim Jordan is a fighter that doesn't back down, and that's what we need to secure the border and stop Joe Biden's inflation bomb agenda. He would stand up to the D.C. establishment and serve the American people well as Speaker of the House," said Sen. Mike Braun (R-IN).

According to GOP strategist and former Senate and House GOP leadership aid Ron Bonjean, Jordan is a "hardliner," but that could help him if he can convince his party that he'd be best to deal with the conservative hardliners in the House Freedom Caucus.