Alabama Rep. Gary Palmer Withdraws from Speaker of the House Race

U.S. Representative Gary Palmer of Alabama has withdrawn from the race for Speaker of the House, leaving seven Republicans vying for the position. Palmer emphasized party unity and stated that the remaining candidates have similar ideas to his platform. The Republicans plan to choose the nominee on Tuesday, with floor voting by the full House possibly later this week. Palmer, a five-term Republican, is the chairman of the House Republican Policy Committee and has a background in conservative think tanks. He is also facing a primary challenge from businessman Gerrick Wilkins.