Steve Scalise is liked and respected. But will he be elected House speaker?

With seven months until House Republicans possibly elect their next top leader, some experts and allies of Rep. Steve Scalise say he still could be a contender.

“I’ll be behind him 110 percent,’’ said Rep. Ralph Abraham, R-La. “If he asks me, I’ll be leading the charge."

Abraham said that as whip Scalise has had to also lobby Democrats to pass some major bills. 

"He’s one the few up here who in my opinion can actually work across the aisle and get some positive things accomplished,'' he said.

Abraham said he also has watched Scalise work with Freedom Caucus members.

“He listens. That’s the first step to solving a problem,'' he said. "Doesn’t mean he will agree with every group that he talks to, but he gives them enough ear time and enough air time to express their views.’’

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