An open seat on the House Judiciary Committee has many eager to fill the vacant spot, giving them more access to directly take part in the impeachment inquiry into the president.
Two freshman members of the House Freedom Caucus have expressed interest in filling former Rep. Ken Buck's (R-Colo.) seat on the panel. Speaker Mike Johnson and the Steering Committee will ultimately decide who succeeds Buck.
"I'd happily serve there if needed," Rep. Eli Crane (R-Ariz.) told Punchbowl before adding, "I don't think I'm high on anyone in leadership's list to fill coveted spots like that."
Crane was one of the eight Republicans who voted to remove former Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
Rep. Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.) also expressed interest in filling the seat, highlighting that he currently serves on the House Financial Services Committee.
Sources close to Johnson reveal the speaker will have a definite interest in filling the open vacancy due to his longtime experience serving on the Judiciary.
Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan also has a major say in the decision. Jordan told Punchbowl he's still in the process of consulting with members and staff on who wants to join.
"We'll see who wants to come on, but we'll get a new member I'm sure," Jordan said. "I thought he was going to stay, but Mr. Buck has had different positions from me and most of the Republicans in the conference for a while."
Buck has long been a thorn in leadership's side, especially the Judiciary panel, since his resignation earlier this month.
Buck has been an open critic regarding the House GOP's political agenda. He remains one of the biggest impeachment cynics in Congress, placing doubt that there is sufficient evidence to impeach President Joe Biden.
The Colorado Republican also assisted in ruining Jordan's bid for speaker last fall, as he disagreed with Jordan's decision not to certify the 2020 election for Biden.
Buck's successor should be someone who agrees with the work they're doing on the panel, believe Judiciary Republicans.
"I hope it will be a conservative who will be part of the team that contributes to the work that we're doing," Rep. Ben Cline (R-Va.) said.
Rep. Barry Moore (R-Ala.) also chimed in, expressing the need for someone who prioritizes border security and "the weaponization of the federal government."
"I certainly hope it's a true conservative fighter," noted Moore.
Amid the bid for the open spot, Judiciary Democrats say Buck's absence will be a loss for a more distinct view on the panel.
Rep. Becca Balint (D-Vt.) said, "I will always be grateful that he dared to stand up to his party on the bogus Biden impeachment. He will say out loud what so many of his colleagues know is true and yet they say nothing. I don't take that lightly."
