<< “ Related topic: I understand that it’s constitutionally-sound if Trump’s VP pick also took over the role of House Speaker. If Newt was the VP pick, he could pick up where he left off years ago. It would help Trump avoid blockades in Congress from Ryan. “ >>
Nita, I am not familiar with such a thing myself, in the context of serving in two positions, as VP and Speaker. BlackElk is the sage of FR, imho, and can verify.
I believe it is true that any citizen can serve as Speaker, if only he manage to be elected by the House of Representatives. Don’t know about serving both positions, since in line for the presidency involves three separate tiers.
There should be a place for Newt Gingrich, with TRUMP, and Newt has certainly invested in polishing his overall image since his photo fiasco with Pelosi, and made himself ready to serve again, even in a “kitchen cabinet”.
I do not believe that ANYONE employed in the Executive Branch can also be Speaker of the House or even a member of the House (although it is not mandatory that the Speaker be elected as a Congressman). Likewise, no federal judge would be eligible to simultaneously serve as Speaker. These cases would cause a violation of the constitutional requirement of separation of powers. Vice President presiding over the Senate is constitutionally authorized and therefore not a violation of separation of powers.
Newt Gingrich is supporting Trump. He was purged by Hastert, Livingston, Boehner, Bill Paxton, Susan Molinari and John Kasich, among others all of them loyal to the GOP-E. Revenge is a dish best served cold. In this case, very cold. No one understands the House and its processes better than Gingrich. He could form a new leadership cadre, lead them to enact Trump's agenda, then retire having chosen a preferred successor. Newt is not getting any younger but he has one more major fight left in him. He is tanned, rested and ready.