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Georgia House Republicans are set to select a new speaker. 

The embattled GOP caucus is scheduled to meet at the state Capitol on Thursday and will choose from among three candidates for the job, one of the most powerful political posts in Georgia.  State Rep. Larry O'Neal, of Bonaire, David Ralston, of Blue Ridge, and Bill Hembree, of Winston, are vying to replace Glenn Richardson, the state's first Republican speaker since Reconstruction. 

Richardson is set to step down Jan. 1 after a suicide attempt and allegations by his ex-wife of an affair with a lobbyist. 

The full House must vote for the speaker when the state Legislature returns Jan. 11. But the GOP holds a 105-74 majority in the chamber so their nominee is expected to prevail.