GOP Infighting Over Speaker Pick Leads to Phone Confiscation and Accusations of Secrecy

House Republicans had their phones confiscated during secret meetings to prevent leaks about picking a new Speaker.

The move backfired, fueling accusations of backroom deals and lack of transparency from the Republican base.

Louisiana Rep. Steve Scalise was nominated as Speaker but quickly dropped out after the far-right Freedom Caucus revolted.

Some Republicans now want to tweak internal party rules or consult the House parliamentarian to bypass the right-wing blockade.

The slim GOP majority is divided between more moderate members and hardliners loyal to Trump, making governing difficult.