WASHINGTON, Jan 4, 2023 (BSS/AFP) - Donald Trump on Wednesday called for far-right Republicans to end their blocking of the party's candidate to become US House speaker, after a damaging split prevented Kevin McCarthy from securing the role.

"It's now time for all of our great Republican House Members to vote for Kevin, close the deal and take victory," Trump posted on social media. "Republicans, do not turn a great triumph into a giant and embarrassing defeat."