Congressman Tony Cárdenas, representative for California's 29th Congressional District, has called for bipartisan support for the selection of Speaker of the House of Representatives.

Following the unexpected announcement that House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., ceased his bid to succeed Rep. John Boehner, R-Ohio, as Speaker of the House, Cárdenas said the next speaker must have the support "in spirit and vote" by both political parties.

"I understand that the American people have elected a large majority of Republicans to run our House. Clearly, their actions must be respected. However, I do not believe that a majority of Republican voters elected any member of Congress with the intent of stopping the progress and growth of our nation," said Cárdenas in a statement on Thursday. "I know that the American people in general want a richer, bigger middle class, great schools for our kids, an infrastructure that helps our economy improve and laws that protect all Americans."

Although he acknowledged that many of his colleagues are "satisfied to watch the Republican caucus implode," Cárdenas said he is saddened with the congressional inaction since he started working in the House three years ago, such as the House not debating comprehensive immigration reform -- despite one bipartisan legislation passing the Senate in 2013.

"I hope that we can find at least 218 American public servants who can elect a Speaker with those same ideals in mind," Cárdenas said.

On Thursday, McCarthy told reporters about the need for unity -- although the call to unite was more for House Republicans.

"If we are going to unite and be strong, we need a new face to help do that," McCarthy told reporters. "Nothing more than that. I feel good about the decision."

McCarthy has been under criticism, even from within the Republican Party, for implying the House Select Committee on Benghazi was politically motivated to negatively affect Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton's campaign.

During an appearing on Fox News in late September, McCarthy said, "Everybody thought Hillary Clinton was unbeatable, right? But we put together a Benghazi special committee, a select committee. What are her numbers today? Her numbers are dropping. Why? Because she's un-trustable. But no one would have known any of that had happened had we not fought."

Meanwhile, Republican Reps. Jason Chaffetz of Utah and Daniel Webster of Florida are still seeking the speakership.

Boehner announced his resignation on Sept. 25, which also came by surprise.

As Latin Post reported, in a prepared statement, Boehner said he steps down feeling proud about his accomplishments and in advancing conservative reforms. He explained his intention was to only serve as speaker until late 2013 but stayed on to "provide continuity" for the Republican caucus in the House.

"It is my view, however, that prolonged leadership turmoil would do irreparable damage to the institution. To that end, I will resign the Speakership and my seat in Congress on October 30," said Boehner on Sept. 25.

But with McCarthy's latest announcement, Boehner said he will continue his role as speaker until the House elects his successor.

In a prepared statement, Boehner said on Thursday, "We will announce the date for this election at a later date, and I'm confident we will elect a new Speaker in the coming weeks. Our conference will work together to ensure we have the strongest team possible as we continue to focus on the American people's priorities."

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For the latest updates, follow Latin Post's Politics Editor Michael Oleaga on Twitter: @EditorMikeO or contact via email: m.oleaga@latinpost.com.

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