McCarthy faces ousting threat from Gaetz over bipartisan move to avert shutdown

Speaker Kevin McCarthy of California has responded defiantly to the challenge posed by far-right Republican Representative Matt Gaetz of Florida.

Gaetz announced his intention to initiate proceedings to remove McCarthy from his leadership role after McCarthy’s reliance on Democratic support to prevent a government shutdown.

Speaking on Sunday, McCarthy conveyed his confidence in his ability to retain his position, dismissing Gaetz’s efforts as “personal” and suggesting the Florida congressman was more focused on securing television appearances than governing. McCarthy stated, “I’ll survive,” and called for a return to the business of governing, highlighting his commitment to avoiding a government shutdown.

The controversy erupted when McCarthy, facing pressure from conservative members within his own party, sought assistance from Democrats to pass a short-term funding bill, thereby extending the government’s operations until November 17.

Gaetz, a vocal conservative, expressed his dissatisfaction with McCarthy’s approach, proclaiming his intention to “file a motion to vacate” against the Speaker, adding, “I think we need to rip off the Band-Aid. I think we need to move on with new leadership that can be trustworthy.”

McCarthy, undeterred by Gaetz’s challenge, defended his handling of the short-term funding measure and dared his detractors to “bring it.” McCarthy had previously secured a deal with conservatives in January, allowing for a single member of the House to initiate a vote to remove him from the Speaker’s position.

This agreement ultimately facilitated McCarthy’s election as Speaker after a contentious process involving four days and 15 rounds of voting.

However, the path to McCarthy’s potential removal from the speakership remains uncertain. With Republicans holding a narrow majority in the House, finding a suitable successor who can bridge the divide between right-wing and moderate factions within the party could prove to be a formidable task.

Gaetz, to succeed in his efforts to oust McCarthy, would need to secure 218 votes, potentially necessitating support from Democratic members due to the slim Republican majority. Gaetz confidently asserted that he already possesses “enough” Republican votes to potentially place McCarthy’s leadership in jeopardy, suggesting that McCarthy could soon be “serving at the pleasure of the Democrats” if he retains his role as Speaker. The political turmoil in the Republican ranks is sure to be closely watched in the days to come.