Gaetz Takes Aim at McCarthy-Backed Candidates
Representative Matt Gaetz has been throwing his support behind conservative candidates running against those endorsed by House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy. Gaetz, a prominent figure in the far-right faction of the Republican Party, has made it clear that he is focused on backing ultra-conservative candidates in primary races.
McCarthy has been actively endorsing candidates for the 2024 cycle, including those in key target districts for national Republicans. Gaetz’s support for candidates running against McCarthy’s choices reflects the ongoing tension between the two GOP leaders. Gaetz has vehemently opposed McCarthy, even leading the charge to remove him from his leadership position earlier this year.
In response to accusations that his endorsements are reflective of his opposition to McCarthy, Gaetz stated, “He’s old news. Mike Johnson’s speaker now.” Gaetz’s efforts to support candidates challenging McCarthy’s endorsements have drawn attention and sparked internal conflict within the Republican Party.
The involvement of Gaetz in key primary races has also caused a stir among Republican leadership. His backing of candidates like Majewski in Ohio’s 9th district has disrupted the plans of McCarthy and other establishment Republicans. The recent incident involving Riedel, a candidate originally endorsed by House leadership, demonstrates the domino effect of Gaetz’s involvement in primary races.
Despite concerns about the impact of conservative candidates on the broader image of the Republican Party, Gaetz has maintained his focus on the importance of primaries as a reflection of the party’s direction. The ongoing clash between Gaetz and McCarthy, and the influence of their respective endorsements, has further highlighted the internal divisions within the Republican Party as it navigates key primary races leading up to the 2024 election.