House of Cards

Here's who could be the next speaker. [For the best experience, read in browser.]( October 5, 2023 Amid all the chaotic maneuvering in Congress, we've got a look at [who could rise to lead the House of Representatives](. Then, we’ll go from who will be the speaker now to Speak Now: Here’s [what Travis Kelce said]( about the obsession over his rumored romance with Taylor Swift. We’ll end with [menswear must-haves for fall]( and [a can’t-miss deal on gardening gadgets](. Thanks for waking up with us!   In the News [a podium with a gavel ]( Getty Images House of Cards Now that Kevin McCarthy has officially been ousted as speaker, the GOP-led House is on the hunt for a new leader. Republicans are expected to hold a speaker candidate forum on Tuesday followed by an election the next day. While there’s no clear frontrunner, House Majority leader Steve Scalise and Rep. Jim Jordan have both announced bids to take the top spot. We’ve got [a look at other possible successors]( — and the scoop on whether the role could really go to Donald Trump, as some representatives have suggested. [READ MORE]( PASS THIS STORY ALONG: mailto:?subject=Check%20out%20this%20story%20from%20Wake-Up%20Call%21&body=https%3A%2F%2Fkatiecouric.com%2Fnews%2Fpolitics-and-policy%2Fwho-will-be-the-new-speaker-of-the-house%2F   More Stories [German Shepherd looking through balcony railings]( Getty Images Commander out: President Biden’s dog Commander has been evicted from the White House after biting a series of Secret Service personnel and other staff. “Commander is not presently on the White House campus while next steps are evaluated,” a spokesman for Jill Biden said. The two-year-old German Shepherd is known to have bitten at least 11 people. Per CNN sources, the true number is far higher — with one injury requiring hospital treatment. Fresh revelations: Nadine Arslanian Menendez, who's now the wife of Democratic Sen. Bob Menendez, struck and killed a pedestrian with her Mercedes-Benz sedan back in December 2018, newly-revealed police records show. According to the report, Nadine Menendez hit 49-year-old Richard Koop while driving alone, but was released without summons. Four months later, Nadine and Bob — who were not yet married — were apparently gifted a new Mercedes as part of the alleged bribery scheme for which they are both now facing federal charges. Gun violence: A man officiating a wedding in Nebraska is facing child abuse charges after accidentally shooting his 12-year-old grandson. Michael Gardner, 62, decided to "start the wedding with a bang,” a local deputy said, adding that when he cocked back the hammer of the revolver, "it slipped and it shot his grandson into the left shoulder.” This comes alongside findings published this morning revealing that the rate of firearm deaths among U.S. children under 18 increased by 87 percent between 2011 and 2021. Unstoppable: Simone Biles led the U.S. women's gymnastics team to a record seventh consecutive team title at the gymnastics world championships last night, ten years to the day after she won her first medal there. This latest triumph marks Biles' 33rd major championship medal, making her the most decorated female gymnast ever. "I’m surprised I’m still going," the 26-year-old said. "It feels just as good."   The Flu & You [three children pointing to band-aids on their arms from a vaccine]( Getty Images If you’ve ever had the flu, you know it can be absolutely miserable. Luckily, there are flu shots to help protect you against flu and flu-associated complications like severe illness and hospitalizations. With help from our partner CSL Seqirus, [we’re answering all of your flu Q’s](, including why you need to get a shot even if you got one last year. [READ MORE]( [Sponsored by CSL Seqirus](   Must-Reads [Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift]( Speaking Now Travis Kelce shared his thoughts about the ongoing (and seemingly increasing) media frenzy surrounding his relationship with Taylor Swift. [Read More »]( [Berries arranged in the shape of an outline of breasts]( Factor In Some breast cancer risks, like genetics, fall out of our control. So how big of an impact do diet and exercise have? A doctor unpacks it. [Read More »]( [Surprised woman, robot hand holding a single carnation]( Virtual Romance It’s not just the plot of an Oscar award-winning movie: People are falling in love with chatbots IRL, and this tech could revolutionize intimacy. [Read More »](     Extra Credit Until next season: Do you have a void in your life now that Only Murders in the Building ended? Consider [these 7 shows]( your fix: They bring the same lighthearted approach to crime-solving as our favorite podcasting trio. Eye candy: Finding the right look for your glasses can be seriously stressful — particularly when a clerk is waiting for you to make a decision. We asked our partners at Pair Eyewear for advice on[choosing the best frames for every face shape]( while still letting your personal style shine through. Buttoned up: Men’s fashion, particularly this time of year, can be dumbed down to just flannels and brown boots — but not everyone’s a fan of the lumberjack aesthetic. Mix things up with [these fall wardrobe essentials](.   Smart Shopping [Tory Burch Apple Watch band, hedge trimmer and vacuum on blue background]( KCM A certain prime retailer isn’t the only one gearing up for big markdowns — some of our favorite destinations are hosting major fall sales. So now’s a great time to finally hit “check out” on those gadgets you’ve been eyeing, like… - The [chic Apple watch band]( from Tory Burch that elevates your everyday look. - Target has a slew of steep savings during Circle Week, including this [Dyson vacuum that’s 30% off](. (All you have to do is join the free loyalty program.) - Get your front yard in picture-perfect condition with on-sale tools at Best Buy, including [this hedge trimmer by Greenworks](. Don’t be like this one reviewer, who said, "I wish I bought this one before the other 6 brands."   One More Thing [Andy Cohen, Melissa Etheridge, Katie Couric]( Photo by Charles Sykes I was thrilled to be back on Bravo last night for Watch What Happens Live! Joining me in the clubhouse were Melissa Etheridge and an entire audience of breast cancer survivors, patients, and advocates. In case you missed it, here's [a peek from the show]( (and [the after show]().   [Know it all, and help your friends catch up, too. Share Wake-Up Call and you'll earn some superb swag.]( Thanks for reading Wake-Up Call and being part of our community! If you have questions or comments, drop us a line at info@katiecouric.com. See you tomorrow! [Alternate text] Update your preferences or [unsubscribe]( If you buy something through this email, KCM may earn a commission. Katie Couric Media, 75 Varick St, Ste 12, New York, NY - 10013-1917 Copyright © 2023 Katie Couric Media, All rights reserved.