FOR the first time since before the civil war, the US House of Representatives failed to elect a new speaker after 10 rounds of voting on Thursday.

The narrow Republican majority failed to rally behind one candidate and voted for another adjournment until this afternoon to try again.

Since Tuesday, and after 11 rounds of voting, Republican leader Kevin McCarthy has seen his numbers drop from a high of 203 to 200 in the latest round.

Twelve Republicans backed Florida’s Byron Donalds, seven supported Oklahoma’s Kevin Hern, and one even nominated former president Donald Trump.

During every round of voting this week, all 212 Democrats have maintained their support for their leader Hakeem Jeffries.

The last time lawmakers needed multiple rounds of voting to choose a speaker was a century ago, when it took nine attempts.

While both allies and opponents of Mr McCarthy signalled that negotiations over a potential deal are ongoing, it's not clear that enough of the 20 far-right members can be convinced to support their leader.

“If you think House Republicans’ chaos will end with electing a speaker, you aren't paying attention,” said the chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, Pramila Jayapal.

“This is who they are: chaotic, selfish, and incapable of leadership.”