Which individuals from the Republican party are potential contenders for the position of US House Speaker?

The search for a new Speaker of the House of Representatives within the Republican party continues after the removal of Kevin McCarthy nearly three weeks ago. Last week, Jim Jordan was removed as the party's nominee after three failed rounds of votes. Steve Scalise, who was previously nominated, withdrew just one day after being chosen. It is unclear who will be nominated next. Nine new candidates will be heard at a closed-door forum on Monday evening, followed by an internal conference vote on Tuesday. The eventual nominee may be given more time to gather support within the fractured conference. Tom Emmer, currently the House Majority Whip and the third-most powerful Republican in the House, is one of the candidates. He may face difficulties in securing votes from right-wing Republicans and former President Donald Trump's allies due to his support for certifying Joe Biden's election victory. Mark Hern, the Chairman of the Republican Study Committee, is also a candidate. He is seen as a moderate choice compared to Jim Jordan, but has the conservative credentials necessary to win over the right-wing of the party. Austin Scott, who won 81 votes in a closed-door ballot against Jim Jordan, is running for Speaker and has the support of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy. He has criticized the right-wing rebels responsible for McCarthy's removal. Bill Johnson, a lawyer, former talk radio host, and close ally of Jim Jordan, is also vying for the position. He played a key role in objecting to Joe Biden's election victory. Jack Bergman, a retired pilot, former lieutenant general in the Marine Corps, and the current chair of the House Armed Services subcommittee on intelligence and special operations, portrays himself as a temporary option to "steady the ship" and gain votes where others could not. Byron Donalds, a relative newcomer to Congress, is a strong supporter of Donald Trump and a member of the House Freedom Caucus. He gained support during the previous Speaker battle. Dan Meuser, a former businessman and current Congressman, brings a business perspective and seeks consensus if nominated for Speaker. Pete Sessions, the longest-serving representative in the running, previously served as chairman of the House Republican campaign committee and the Rules committee. Gary Palmer, the Chair of the Republican Policy Committee and member of various committees, was elected in 2014 and aims to influence public policy in line with conservative values.