DeLay: 2016 Election 'Most Important Since Civil War'

The next Speaker of the House will not only have to rally restive GOP lawmakers, but strengthen the party for a presidential election that's "probably the most important since the Civil War," former Texas Republican Rep. Tom DeLay tells Newsmax TV.

In an interview Friday with "Newsmax Prime" host J.D. Hayworth, the former majority leader from 2003 to 2005 said Wisconsin Rep. Paul Ryan, chairman of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee is likely considering the job — and that "most members will rally around him because they trust him."

"You need a leader, someone they can rally people together … can get these seats re-elected so they can hold on to the majority and set the tone and message for the presidential election to help whoever is running for president," he said.

"This election is probably the most important election since the Civil War."

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