Far-right Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida has announced his intention to oust Speaker Kevin McCarthy from his leadership position after the top Republican relied on Democrats to prevent a government shutdown. Gaetz criticized McCarthy’s decision, calling it “personal” and accusing him of being more interested in securing TV interviews. In response, McCarthy expressed confidence in his ability to keep his job, stating that he will “survive” the challenge from Gaetz. McCarthy defended his actions, stating that his focus is on governing and ensuring that the government does not shut down.
McCarthy, a California Republican, turned to Democrats on Saturday to help pass a short-term funding bill, giving lawmakers more time to pass annual appropriations bills and avoid a shutdown. This move came after conservatives threatened to remove McCarthy from his position if he relied on Democrats to avert a shutdown.
Gaetz, speaking on CNN’s “State of the Union,” announced his plan to file a motion to vacate against Speaker McCarthy, citing the need for new leadership that can be trusted. McCarthy, however, dared his detractors to “bring it on” and defended his handling of the short-term measure.
If McCarthy is removed from the speakership, there is currently no clear successor. With Republicans holding a slim majority in the House, finding a candidate who can satisfy both the right-wing and moderate members of the party may prove challenging. Gaetz would need 218 votes to oust McCarthy, indicating that he would likely require Democratic support given the Republicans’ slim majority. Gaetz claimed to have enough Republican votes to potentially make McCarthy “serving at the pleasure of the Democrats” if he remains speaker.
Despite Gaetz’s attempt, some Republicans believe McCarthy can survive the challenge and remain in leadership. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, a member of the House Problem Solvers Caucus, expressed his support for McCarthy, stating that bipartisan bills should be encouraged rather than punished. Fitzpatrick also suggested that the rules should be changed if Gaetz continues to bring a motion to vacate, as it is not sustainable for such motions to be voted on daily for the remainder of the term.
The situation between Gaetz and McCarthy highlights the ongoing divisions within the Republican Party and the challenges faced in finding consensus among its members. As the battle for leadership continues, the future direction of the party remains uncertain.