McCarthyism 2021 Redux: The "patriotic" art of lying for one’s party:
(QAnon. I dont even know what that is" -Kevin McCarthy).🙄 --Zorek Richards 2/3/21
(QAnon. I dont even know what that is" -Kevin McCarthy).🙄 --Zorek Richards 2/3/21
Kevin Owen McCarthy(born January 26, 1965) is an American politician who was the 55th speaker of the United States House of Representatives. A member of the Republican Party, he was the leader of the House Republican Conference from 2019 to 2023 and served as House Minority Leader from 2019 until his election as speaker in January 2023. His tenure ended after only ten months, when he became the only Speaker to be removed from the position following a motion to vacate. Since 2007, he has been a U.S. Representative from California. His district, which encompasses most of the San Joaquin Valley has been numbered as California's 20th congressional district since 2023. On December 6, 2023 he announced plans to retire by the end of the year.
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Opinion - Shocks and surprises covering House Republicans for The Hill Then came an even bigger surprise. Instead of going through with the election to succeed Boehner, Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) told colleagues just before they cast their ballots that he wasn’t the right guy at this time and was dropping out of the race. Then-Rep. Ryan Costello (R-Pa.) walked out and broke the news to reporters: “McCarthy dropped out.” “Say that again?” I replied, to make sure I had heard him right. McCarthy was out, he repeated; the House was back in a state of chaos. I immediately called Managing Editor Ian Swanson and told him what I had just learned. His headline properly captured the moment: “Shock! McCarthy drops Speaker bid.” (New York Post 10/24/24) READ MORE>>>>> Ex-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy emerges as dark horse candidate for Trump chief of staff role The ousted former speaker of the House of Representatives is widely seen as a top contender to be former President Donald Trump’s first chief of staff if he retakes the White House following the Nov. 5 election, according to sources familiar with the deliberations. No final decision has been made and there is no sign that McCarthy is campaigning for the coveted role — though one person said the Californian has shown openness to being part of a second Trump administration in some capacity. (New York Post 10/24/24) READ MORE>>>>> McCarthy to Johnson: ‘Do not be fearful of a motion to vacate’ Former Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), who was ousted from the Speakership last year, advised Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) on Sunday not to be afraid of a motion to vacate. On CBS’s “Face the Nation, ” McCarthy was asked whether the “chaos” within the GOP conference is driving Republican lawmakers to retire from the House or leave their terms early. He referenced his experience being booted from the leadership position last year, saying that the motion to vacate him created “chaos.” (The Hill 3/24/24) READ MORE>>>>> Kevin McCarthy’s next move could be to become a lobbyist Now that he’s announced plans to resign by the end of this year, what does the future hold for former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy? One option for McCarthy — and perhaps the most lucrative — is to enter the world of lobbying. (Jenny Huh/KGET 12/6/23) READ MORE>>>>> From ‘My Kevin’ to ‘Bye Kevin’: Constituents weigh in on McCarthy’s pending departure from Congress BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) – What a year it’s been for Kevin McCarthy. From Speaker of the House in January to soon-to-be-former congressman in December, it’s been a roller coaster for McCarthy, but also for his constituents. Cassie Bittle, owner of KC Steakhouse and member of the Bakersfield Planning Commission, is disappointed – and worried. (Robert Price/KGET 12/6/23) READ MORE>>>>> |
October 27, 2024: McCarthy: "If Kamala’s polls were better, would she still be blasting Trump?: Kevin McCarthy" ED NOTE: Without a doubt. Her opinion of Trump, as with most people against Trump, has nothing to do with polls. December 8, 2023: Kevin McCarthy endorses Trump for president in 2024.
Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is endorsing former President Trump in 2024, and said he'd be willing to serve in a cabinet role "if I'm the best person for the job." Why it matters: McCarthy, who is leaving Congress this year after becoming the first speaker ever ousted from his job, told CBS Sunday Morning that he and Trump are "very honest with one another." McCarthy said if President Biden is the Democratic nominee, he expects Trump to be the GOP nominee and predicted Republicans will gain House seats and win back the Senate. October 10, 2021: Adam Schiff via NPR said that even relationships with Republican colleagues that had previously been amicable are now compromised, including with House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy. Even after the Jan. 6 insurrection, Schiff thought the country might turn a corner, but "that flickering of conscience within the GOP lasted about 30 seconds for Kevin McCarthy." |
'Orange Jesus' and a note from George W. Bush: 5 takeaways from Republican Liz Cheney's book
Former Rep. Liz Cheney, R-Wyo., is one of former President Donald Trump’s most vocal critics. But she has few kind words for other prominent Republicans in her new book. In her book “Oath and Honor: A Memoir and a Warning,” released Tuesday, Cheney criticizes Trump and targets House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., and other Republicans who have stood by the former president.
(Marina Pitofsky/USA Today 12/6/23)
READ MORE>>>>>
Former Rep. Liz Cheney, R-Wyo., is one of former President Donald Trump’s most vocal critics. But she has few kind words for other prominent Republicans in her new book. In her book “Oath and Honor: A Memoir and a Warning,” released Tuesday, Cheney criticizes Trump and targets House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., and other Republicans who have stood by the former president.
(Marina Pitofsky/USA Today 12/6/23)
READ MORE>>>>>
"Kevin McCarthy Tripped Over His Clown Shoes Rolling Out His Pitch to Be SpeakerHis "Commitment to America" appears to be a commitment to doing absolutely no research whatsoever." -Charles Pierce; Esquire
Fox News is dragging the GOP into an inane, inevitable impeachment of Joe Biden
House Republicans appear poised to launch an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), who called an impeachment inquiry a “natural step forward” during a Fox News appearance late last month, is reportedly strategizing with other top Republicans about how to open one by the end of September, which would likely focus on the business dealings of Biden’s son Hunter during the Obama administration. House congressional probes of the subject have generated plenty of content for right-wing outlets. But even members of the GOP caucus acknowledge it has uncovered little to no evidence of wrongdoing by President Biden. As one House Republican (anonymously) put it: “There’s no evidence that Joe Biden got money, or that Joe Biden, you know, agreed to do something so that Hunter could get money. There’s just no evidence of that. And they can’t impeach without that evidence. And I don’t I don’t think the evidence exists.” Absent that proof, political commentators rightfully warn, moving forward with impeachment “would carry considerable risk for the Republican Party.” (Matt Gertz/Media Matters 9/6/23)
READ MORE>>>>>
House Republicans appear poised to launch an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), who called an impeachment inquiry a “natural step forward” during a Fox News appearance late last month, is reportedly strategizing with other top Republicans about how to open one by the end of September, which would likely focus on the business dealings of Biden’s son Hunter during the Obama administration. House congressional probes of the subject have generated plenty of content for right-wing outlets. But even members of the GOP caucus acknowledge it has uncovered little to no evidence of wrongdoing by President Biden. As one House Republican (anonymously) put it: “There’s no evidence that Joe Biden got money, or that Joe Biden, you know, agreed to do something so that Hunter could get money. There’s just no evidence of that. And they can’t impeach without that evidence. And I don’t I don’t think the evidence exists.” Absent that proof, political commentators rightfully warn, moving forward with impeachment “would carry considerable risk for the Republican Party.” (Matt Gertz/Media Matters 9/6/23)
READ MORE>>>>>
June 6, 2023: The Mary Sue: Marjorie Taylor Greene Voted Out of Freedom Caucus for Calling Lauren Boebert a ‘Little B*tch’
In reality, the House Freedom Caucus has turned on Greene ever since she allied herself with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Greene brought over far-right votes in exchange for being reinstated on committees. And it probably didn’t help that Greene doubled down on her insult, telling Semafor, “She has genuinely been a nasty little bitch to me, … I was sitting down, and so I stood up and I said, ‘I’m happy to clarify my public statements to your face,’ … I told her exactly what I think about her.”
In reality, the House Freedom Caucus has turned on Greene ever since she allied herself with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Greene brought over far-right votes in exchange for being reinstated on committees. And it probably didn’t help that Greene doubled down on her insult, telling Semafor, “She has genuinely been a nasty little bitch to me, … I was sitting down, and so I stood up and I said, ‘I’m happy to clarify my public statements to your face,’ … I told her exactly what I think about her.”
May 21, 2023: BBC: US debt ceiling: Joe Biden and Kevin McCarthy seek to break impasse
President Joe Biden and top Republican Kevin McCarthy have spoken on the phone, in a change of tone in stalled talks on lifting the US debt ceiling.
Mr Biden told reporters the call "went well" and the two would talk again on Monday, as he arrived back at the White House from the G7 summit in Japan.
The two sides remain at odds over budget cuts demanded by the Republicans as a condition for raising the ceiling.
President Joe Biden and top Republican Kevin McCarthy have spoken on the phone, in a change of tone in stalled talks on lifting the US debt ceiling.
Mr Biden told reporters the call "went well" and the two would talk again on Monday, as he arrived back at the White House from the G7 summit in Japan.
The two sides remain at odds over budget cuts demanded by the Republicans as a condition for raising the ceiling.
May 10, 2023:
👉U.S. Rep. George Santos (aka, "insert name here") was arrested Wednesday on federal criminal charges ahead of an expected court appearance. Indictment unsealed: Santos was charged with seven counts of wire fraud, three counts of money laundering, one count of theft of public funds, and two counts of making materially false statements to the House of Representatives.
In other words, he is being a Republican.
Kevin McCarthy has signaled that George Santos will be allowed to continue to serve in Congress even after being indicted. But, again, that's just what Republicans do nowadays.
👉U.S. Rep. George Santos (aka, "insert name here") was arrested Wednesday on federal criminal charges ahead of an expected court appearance. Indictment unsealed: Santos was charged with seven counts of wire fraud, three counts of money laundering, one count of theft of public funds, and two counts of making materially false statements to the House of Representatives.
In other words, he is being a Republican.
Kevin McCarthy has signaled that George Santos will be allowed to continue to serve in Congress even after being indicted. But, again, that's just what Republicans do nowadays.
April 23, 2023: KARK: Arkansas delegation share support for House debt limit bill
According to the Associated Press, President Joe Biden said he was willing to negotiate with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, but not on the debt limit.
“Happy to meet with McCarthy, but not on whether or not the debt limit gets extended,” Biden said. “That’s not negotiable.”
According to the Associated Press, President Joe Biden said he was willing to negotiate with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, but not on the debt limit.
“Happy to meet with McCarthy, but not on whether or not the debt limit gets extended,” Biden said. “That’s not negotiable.”
May 1, 2023: Reuters: US may default on June 1 without debt ceiling hike; Biden, McCarthy to meet
Biden called Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in Jerusalem, where he is on a diplomatic trip, to invite him to a May 9 White House meeting. The two leaders haven't sat down to discuss the issue since February.
Biden called Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in Jerusalem, where he is on a diplomatic trip, to invite him to a May 9 White House meeting. The two leaders haven't sat down to discuss the issue since February.
Mar 20, 2023: Vanity Fair: TRUMP’S LOOMING INDICTMENT HAS REPUBLICANS GOING FULL MAGA
Everyone from Kevin McCarthy to Rick Scott to Ron DeSantis have attempted to paint the Stormy Daniels hush-money probe as a politically motivated witch-hunt.
Everyone from Kevin McCarthy to Rick Scott to Ron DeSantis have attempted to paint the Stormy Daniels hush-money probe as a politically motivated witch-hunt.
March 14, 2023: GIS Report: U.S. congressional infighting is more than meets the eye
Since the Republican majority in the House was so narrow, Mr. McCarthy had to secure near-unanimous support from party members. A group of 20 Republicans actively withheld their support, resulting in several rounds of voting for the speakership. This was resolved only after intense negotiations on rule changes, key committee assignments and priorities for Congressional oversight and policymaking.
Since the Republican majority in the House was so narrow, Mr. McCarthy had to secure near-unanimous support from party members. A group of 20 Republicans actively withheld their support, resulting in several rounds of voting for the speakership. This was resolved only after intense negotiations on rule changes, key committee assignments and priorities for Congressional oversight and policymaking.
March 14, 2023: Raw Story: Kevin McCarthy will make moderates 'walk the plank' to avoid 'massive embarrassment': report
House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) is about to face his first major challenge, since it took fifteen ballots to get elected to his current leadership position, as he tries to come up with a budget package that looks like it will be unpopular with moderates in his caucus.
House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) is about to face his first major challenge, since it took fifteen ballots to get elected to his current leadership position, as he tries to come up with a budget package that looks like it will be unpopular with moderates in his caucus.
March 9, 2023: MSNBC: On Jan. 6 violence, does McCarthy agree with Carlson or himself?
The GOP leader — who gave the Fox host exclusive access to the security footage for reasons he’s still struggling to explain — has claimed he hasn’t seen Carlson’s coverage, even as the House Republican conference he leads promotes the segments.
Eventually, however, McCarthy should take a little time and see the results of his handiwork. At that point, the House speaker will have a choice: He can tell us whether Carlson is right about what transpired on Jan. 6 or whether McCarthy is. He can’t pick both.
The GOP leader — who gave the Fox host exclusive access to the security footage for reasons he’s still struggling to explain — has claimed he hasn’t seen Carlson’s coverage, even as the House Republican conference he leads promotes the segments.
Eventually, however, McCarthy should take a little time and see the results of his handiwork. At that point, the House speaker will have a choice: He can tell us whether Carlson is right about what transpired on Jan. 6 or whether McCarthy is. He can’t pick both.
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March 7, 2023: Independent: Why Kevin McCarthy really gave Tucker Carlson the Jan 6 videos
Tucker Carlson gets to continue his whitewash of the Capitol riot and Kevin McCarthy gets to cover his right flank. Both get to placate the Fox viewership that dominates the GOP base |
The conservative movement and right-wing media has never really trusted Kevin McCarthy. They often see him as a chameleon devoid of any real ideology who has shifted as his party has changed. Indeed, last year, Mr Carlson said in private McCarthy “sounds like an MSNBC contributor” and called him “a puppet of the Dem Party” after The New York Times revealed recordings of his conversations with House GOP leadership after the January 6 riot. This explains why McCarthy, now the House Speaker, elected to deliver the entire January 6 Capitol footage to Carlson. In the days after the riot, McCarthy explicitly said that Trump bore responsibility for the attack and privately berated Trump as the riot was underway. But in his desire to become House speaker, he soon backed away, flew down to Mar-a-Lago to placate Trump and opposed the creation of a bipartisan commission to investigate January 6. McCarthy giving Carlson the Jan 6 tapes further proves the point that McCarthy needs the backing of Fox to cling to political power. Passing along the Jan 6 videos boosts McCarthy’s bonafides with the Republican base. 3.7.23 |
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For a guy with no ethics Kevin McCarthy sure makes a lot of noise about ethics.□ - --Zorek Richards; July, 21, 2021- |
Jan 25, 2023: Breitbart: Report: McCarthy Assured Manchin No Cuts to Social Security, Medicare in Debt Ceiling Resolution
House Speaker Kevin McCarthy told Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) that Republcans would not make cuts to social security or Medicare to offset the debt ceiling during a meeting on Tuesday, according to Punch Bowl News co-founder Jake Sherman.
House Speaker Kevin McCarthy told Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) that Republcans would not make cuts to social security or Medicare to offset the debt ceiling during a meeting on Tuesday, according to Punch Bowl News co-founder Jake Sherman.
Jan 24, 2023: Sacramento Bee: Katie Porter wants Dianne Feinstein’s Senate seat. Is that possible?
She can raise a lot of money. Porter raised $25.4 million for her 2022 House campaign, the second biggest haul of any House candidate, behind only current Speaker Kevin McCarthy. She wound up with $7.7 million that she can use for a Senate campaign
She can raise a lot of money. Porter raised $25.4 million for her 2022 House campaign, the second biggest haul of any House candidate, behind only current Speaker Kevin McCarthy. She wound up with $7.7 million that she can use for a Senate campaign
Jan 23, 2023: Axios: GOP hardliners score spots on powerful House Rules Committee
Driving the news: McCarthy appointed five new members to the panel on top of its four current GOP members:
Driving the news: McCarthy appointed five new members to the panel on top of its four current GOP members:
- The new members: Reps. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), Ralph Norman (R-S.C.), Chip Roy (R-Texas), Erin Houchin (R-Ind.) and Nick Langworthy (R-N.Y.).
- Norman and Roy are both Freedom Caucus members who were holdouts on McCarthy during the speaker election.
- Massie, who voted for McCarthy and is not a Freedom Caucus member, is known as a renegade with staunchly anti-establishment and libertarian views.
Jan 14, 2023: The Journal: George W. Bush should help to shape the Republican agenda
Last week’s U.S. House speaker selection process demonstrated how much the Republican Party has changed, and how much they face divisions. Kevin McCarthy was clearly the logical choice for the job. He rose through the ranks of Republicans and represents a conservative enclave in California, which might be the bluest of the blue states.
Last week’s U.S. House speaker selection process demonstrated how much the Republican Party has changed, and how much they face divisions. Kevin McCarthy was clearly the logical choice for the job. He rose through the ranks of Republicans and represents a conservative enclave in California, which might be the bluest of the blue states.
Jan 13, 2023: Clinton Herald: HOW THEY VOTED: Congressional Votes for Jan. 6-12
SUBCOMMITTEE ON CHINA: The House has passed a resolution (H. Res. 11), sponsored by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., to create a House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party. The select committee would investigate technological and military competition with China, and offer policy recommendations on the matter. McCarthy called the threat posed by China “an issue that transcends our political parties, and creating the select committee on China is our best avenue for addressing it.” The vote, on Jan. 10, was 365 yeas to 65 nays.
SUBCOMMITTEE ON CHINA: The House has passed a resolution (H. Res. 11), sponsored by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., to create a House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party. The select committee would investigate technological and military competition with China, and offer policy recommendations on the matter. McCarthy called the threat posed by China “an issue that transcends our political parties, and creating the select committee on China is our best avenue for addressing it.” The vote, on Jan. 10, was 365 yeas to 65 nays.
Jan 11, 2023: Reuters: Embattled George Santos defies New York Republicans' call to step down
Top House of Representatives Republican Kevin McCarthy said he had no intention of pressuring Santos, part of his narrow 222-212 majority, despite the public plea by more than a dozen top Republicans, many of them from Santos' suburban New York City district.
Top House of Representatives Republican Kevin McCarthy said he had no intention of pressuring Santos, part of his narrow 222-212 majority, despite the public plea by more than a dozen top Republicans, many of them from Santos' suburban New York City district.
Jan 6, 2023: Nashville Scene: In 12th House Speaker Vote, Ogles Joins Colleagues Behind McCarthy
After refusing to support Republican heir apparent Kevin McCarthy through two days of voting and 11 ballots, rookie U.S. Rep.-elect Andy Ogles of Maury County fell in line on Friday. Ogles spent Wednesday and Thursday on the House floor voting with a small bloc of Republicans withholding the votes necessary to make McCarthy the chamber’s speaker.
After refusing to support Republican heir apparent Kevin McCarthy through two days of voting and 11 ballots, rookie U.S. Rep.-elect Andy Ogles of Maury County fell in line on Friday. Ogles spent Wednesday and Thursday on the House floor voting with a small bloc of Republicans withholding the votes necessary to make McCarthy the chamber’s speaker.
Jan 5, 2023: News Nation: GOP’s McCarthy voted down time after time for House speaker
House Republicans flailed through a long second day of fruitless balloting Wednesday, unable to either elect their leader Kevin McCarthy as House speaker or come up with a new strategy to end the political chaos that has tarnished the start of their new majority.
Yet McCarthy wasn’t giving up, even after the fourth, fifth and sixth ballots produced no better outcome and he was left trying to call off a night-time session. Even that was controversial, as the House voted 216-214 — amid shouting and crowding — to adjourn for the night.
House Republicans flailed through a long second day of fruitless balloting Wednesday, unable to either elect their leader Kevin McCarthy as House speaker or come up with a new strategy to end the political chaos that has tarnished the start of their new majority.
Yet McCarthy wasn’t giving up, even after the fourth, fifth and sixth ballots produced no better outcome and he was left trying to call off a night-time session. Even that was controversial, as the House voted 216-214 — amid shouting and crowding — to adjourn for the night.
Jan 1, 2023: CNN: McCarthy commits to key concession in call with frustrated lawmakers but it’s no guarantee he’ll win speakership
House GOP leader Kevin McCarthy outlined some of the concessions that he has agreed to in his campaign for speaker on a Sunday evening conference call – including making it easier to topple the speaker, according to multiple GOP sources on the call. But McCarthy could not say whether he would have the votes for the speakership, even after giving in to some of the right’s most hardline demands.
House GOP leader Kevin McCarthy outlined some of the concessions that he has agreed to in his campaign for speaker on a Sunday evening conference call – including making it easier to topple the speaker, according to multiple GOP sources on the call. But McCarthy could not say whether he would have the votes for the speakership, even after giving in to some of the right’s most hardline demands.
Dec 22, 2022: Politico: Trump acknowledged his election loss to McCarthy before Jan. 6, Hutchinson testified
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy told then-White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson in the days before Jan. 6, 2021, that Donald Trump had privately acknowledged losing the 2020 election, according to a newly disclosed interview Hutchinson gave to the Jan. 6 select committee.
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy told then-White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson in the days before Jan. 6, 2021, that Donald Trump had privately acknowledged losing the 2020 election, according to a newly disclosed interview Hutchinson gave to the Jan. 6 select committee.
Dec 19, 2022: The Hill: Boebert says she won’t support McCarthy without mechanism to remove Speaker
Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) on Monday said she would not support House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) as the next Speaker unless there is a mechanism to easily remove him from the top post.
Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) on Monday said she would not support House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) as the next Speaker unless there is a mechanism to easily remove him from the top post.
Dec 19, 2022: CNN: Incoming House GOP chairs ratchet up pressure on McCarthy’s detractors and call on them to not ‘squander’ their majority
Republicans who will chair House committees in the next Congress are warning that if Kevin McCarthy’s detractors deny him the 218 votes needed to become speaker, they are at risk of undermining the slim majority they won in November.
“Let us not squander this majority before we even take back the gavels,” the incoming chairs write in a letter on Monday. “Time is of the essence, and the American people want us to get to work now. Majorities are earned, never given – and the American people will remember how we choose to begin ours.”
Republicans who will chair House committees in the next Congress are warning that if Kevin McCarthy’s detractors deny him the 218 votes needed to become speaker, they are at risk of undermining the slim majority they won in November.
“Let us not squander this majority before we even take back the gavels,” the incoming chairs write in a letter on Monday. “Time is of the essence, and the American people want us to get to work now. Majorities are earned, never given – and the American people will remember how we choose to begin ours.”
Dec 18, 2022: CNN: GOP congressman signals confidence in McCarthy capturing speakership: ‘We will get there’
A Republican lawmaker on Sunday signaled confidence in House GOP leader Kevin McCarthy’s ability to capture the speakership and move forward even as a number of conservative hard-liners are threatening to upend his bid.
A Republican lawmaker on Sunday signaled confidence in House GOP leader Kevin McCarthy’s ability to capture the speakership and move forward even as a number of conservative hard-liners are threatening to upend his bid.
Dec 17, 2022: Los Angeles Times: McCarthy’s race for speaker risks upending House on Day One
In his quest to be House speaker, Kevin McCarthy is charging straight into history — potentially becoming the first nominee in 100 years unable to win the job on a first-round floor vote.
In his quest to be House speaker, Kevin McCarthy is charging straight into history — potentially becoming the first nominee in 100 years unable to win the job on a first-round floor vote.
Dec 13, 2022: NBC News: Can the 'Never Kevin' caucus hold the line?
The small band of far-right firebrands who could derail Kevin McCarthy’s speaker bid is facing enormous pressure to cave and throw their support to the California Republican ahead of the Jan. 3 floor vote.
The small band of far-right firebrands who could derail Kevin McCarthy’s speaker bid is facing enormous pressure to cave and throw their support to the California Republican ahead of the Jan. 3 floor vote.
Dec 13, 2022: New York Magazine: Will Kevin McCarthy Face the Loss of His Speakership Every Day?
Most of the chatter about Kevin McCarthy’s not-so-firm grip on the small House majority his party won in November is focused on the formal election of a Speaker in January. McCarthy won the GOP nomination for that job shortly after it became clear Republicans had flipped the House, but it’s possible a few renegade House Freedom Caucus types could vote against (or, more likely, abstain from voting for) their putative leader when the deal goes down. His margin of control is a mere five votes. The outcome of that vote and its significance for McCarthy’s tenure may depend on a decision House Republicans will make this week about the rules that will govern the House while they control it.
Most of the chatter about Kevin McCarthy’s not-so-firm grip on the small House majority his party won in November is focused on the formal election of a Speaker in January. McCarthy won the GOP nomination for that job shortly after it became clear Republicans had flipped the House, but it’s possible a few renegade House Freedom Caucus types could vote against (or, more likely, abstain from voting for) their putative leader when the deal goes down. His margin of control is a mere five votes. The outcome of that vote and its significance for McCarthy’s tenure may depend on a decision House Republicans will make this week about the rules that will govern the House while they control it.
Dec 14, 2022: Politico: Come on down? House GOP weighs the right price to topple a speaker
At the heart of the House GOP leader’s latest battle of wits with his critics on the right is what’s known as the “motion to vacate the chair,” which allows members to force a vote on deposing a sitting speaker. The tool became notorious in 2015 when conservatives threatened to use it against then-Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio), but outgoing Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) abolished it — and now McCarthy allies want its use severely restricted amid a fist-tight majority.
At the heart of the House GOP leader’s latest battle of wits with his critics on the right is what’s known as the “motion to vacate the chair,” which allows members to force a vote on deposing a sitting speaker. The tool became notorious in 2015 when conservatives threatened to use it against then-Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio), but outgoing Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) abolished it — and now McCarthy allies want its use severely restricted amid a fist-tight majority.
Dec 14, 2022: Newsweek: Republicans Slam McConnell After He Expresses Support for Omnibus Bill
Among those who have publicly spoken out against McConnell are House GOP Leader Kevin McCarthy of California and Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia.
Among those who have publicly spoken out against McConnell are House GOP Leader Kevin McCarthy of California and Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia.
Dec 12, 2022: The Hill: Greene creates new headache for McCarthy over Jan. 6
Rep. Kevin McCarthy (Calif.) is being dragged into a new row set off by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) as Democrats seek to tie the would-be GOP Speaker to the firebrand lawmaker’s remarks that Jan. 6 rioters would have been armed if she had been their organizer.
Rep. Kevin McCarthy (Calif.) is being dragged into a new row set off by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) as Democrats seek to tie the would-be GOP Speaker to the firebrand lawmaker’s remarks that Jan. 6 rioters would have been armed if she had been their organizer.
Dec 11, 2022: The Hill: GOP members who rebuffed Jan. 6 panel may face referral to ethics panel
The list includes House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (Calif.), and Reps. Scott Perry (Pa.), Jim Jordan (Ohio), Andy Biggs (Ariz.), and Mo Brooks (Ala.).
The list includes House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (Calif.), and Reps. Scott Perry (Pa.), Jim Jordan (Ohio), Andy Biggs (Ariz.), and Mo Brooks (Ala.).
Dec 6, 2022: New York Magazine: Family of Officer Killed on January 6 Snubs Republican Leaders at Ceremony
But when it came time to present the medals to the recipients, one family sent a pointed message. Family members of Officer Brian Sicknick, a Capitol Police officer who died following injuries sustained during the riot, shook hands with both House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer while walking past Republican leaders Mitch McConnell and Kevin McCarthy without acknowledging them.
But when it came time to present the medals to the recipients, one family sent a pointed message. Family members of Officer Brian Sicknick, a Capitol Police officer who died following injuries sustained during the riot, shook hands with both House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer while walking past Republican leaders Mitch McConnell and Kevin McCarthy without acknowledging them.
Kevin McCarthy suggests Republicans will hold their own hearings on the January 6 attack on the Capitol and on democracy, but with a "vastly different focus."
I presume that means Hunter Bidens laptop is going to get blamed for Jan 6. (12.1.22)
Nov 24, 2022: Down With Tyranny: Karl Rove v Josh Hawley-- And Rove Has Reality On His Side
This morning, Ron Brownstein warned about the ramifications of what the new McCarthyism portends for Republicans who fail the heed the message of the midterms. “McCarthy,” he wrote, “in his bid to secure the votes as speaker, promised far-right members of his caucus that he would authorize investigations into the Justice Department’s treatment of the insurrectionists who rioted in support of Trump on January 6 [and]… threatened to launch impeachment proceedings against Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. Two months before taking power, the new House Republican majority has signaled that its investigative agenda will channel the preoccupations of the former president and his die-hard base of supporters. But it has set this course immediately after a midterm election in which voters outside the core conservative states sent an unmistakable signal of their own by repeatedly rejecting Trump-backed candidates in high-profile senate and gubernatorial races. That contrast captures why the GOP’s plans for aggressive investigations of President Joe Biden may present as much political risk for the investigators as it does for the targets.”
This morning, Ron Brownstein warned about the ramifications of what the new McCarthyism portends for Republicans who fail the heed the message of the midterms. “McCarthy,” he wrote, “in his bid to secure the votes as speaker, promised far-right members of his caucus that he would authorize investigations into the Justice Department’s treatment of the insurrectionists who rioted in support of Trump on January 6 [and]… threatened to launch impeachment proceedings against Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. Two months before taking power, the new House Republican majority has signaled that its investigative agenda will channel the preoccupations of the former president and his die-hard base of supporters. But it has set this course immediately after a midterm election in which voters outside the core conservative states sent an unmistakable signal of their own by repeatedly rejecting Trump-backed candidates in high-profile senate and gubernatorial races. That contrast captures why the GOP’s plans for aggressive investigations of President Joe Biden may present as much political risk for the investigators as it does for the targets.”
Some Republicans have signaled that they hope their probes will lead to impeachments — namely of President Joe Biden, Attorney General Merrick Garland and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. While in the minority the past two years, House Republicans introduced 14 impeachment resolutions, more than three times the number Democrats did in the first two years of Donald Trump’s presidency.
However, Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., the favorite to become the next House speaker, has tried to tamp down on such talk. He has said impeachment should not be used as a political weapon, although he’s left the door open for it “if anyone ever rises to that occasion.”
Spectrum News NY1: Now in charge of House, Republicans expected to investigate Hunter Biden, Afghanistan withdrawal, more 11.16.22
However, Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., the favorite to become the next House speaker, has tried to tamp down on such talk. He has said impeachment should not be used as a political weapon, although he’s left the door open for it “if anyone ever rises to that occasion.”
Spectrum News NY1: Now in charge of House, Republicans expected to investigate Hunter Biden, Afghanistan withdrawal, more 11.16.22
MSNBC: The GOP doesn't care about democracy — anywhere
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., is eyeing the speaker’s gavel should Republicans flip the chamber in next month’s midterm elections. Among the potential changes he’s previewed: rethinking U.S. aid to Ukraine. 10.18.22
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., is eyeing the speaker’s gavel should Republicans flip the chamber in next month’s midterm elections. Among the potential changes he’s previewed: rethinking U.S. aid to Ukraine. 10.18.22
New York Times: The Problem of Marjorie Taylor Greene
In Greene’s view, a Speaker McCarthy would have little choice but to adopt Greene’s “a lot more aggressive” approach toward punishing Biden and his fellow Democrats for what she sees as their policy derelictions and for conducting a “witch hunt” against former President Trump. 10.17.22
In Greene’s view, a Speaker McCarthy would have little choice but to adopt Greene’s “a lot more aggressive” approach toward punishing Biden and his fellow Democrats for what she sees as their policy derelictions and for conducting a “witch hunt” against former President Trump. 10.17.22
Feb 24, 2022: Politico: Republicans' responses to Russia's invasion of Ukraine fall into 3 broad categories. Let us break them down for you.
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, a Trump ally who's normally as quick to bash Biden as anyone, didn't mention the current president at all in his statement on the "reckless and evil" invasion: "The United States stands with the people of Ukraine and prays for their safety and resolve. Putin’s actions must be met with serious consequence. This act of war is intended to rewrite history and more concerning, upend the balance of power in Europe. Putin must be held accountable for his actions."
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, a Trump ally who's normally as quick to bash Biden as anyone, didn't mention the current president at all in his statement on the "reckless and evil" invasion: "The United States stands with the people of Ukraine and prays for their safety and resolve. Putin’s actions must be met with serious consequence. This act of war is intended to rewrite history and more concerning, upend the balance of power in Europe. Putin must be held accountable for his actions."
Feb 9, 2022: HuffPost: Rep. Kevin McCarthy Finally Admits Capitol Riot Was ‘Violent Insurrection’
House Republican leader Kevin McCarthy said Wednesday he agreed that the Capitol riot was a violent insurrection, the clearest answer he’s given after dodging the issue this week.
Asked Wednesday about Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell’s (R-Ky.) description of the riot as a “violent insurrection,” McCarthy said he agreed.
House Republican leader Kevin McCarthy said Wednesday he agreed that the Capitol riot was a violent insurrection, the clearest answer he’s given after dodging the issue this week.
Asked Wednesday about Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell’s (R-Ky.) description of the riot as a “violent insurrection,” McCarthy said he agreed.
2023
January 5, 2023: McCarthy loses House vote to make him Speaker of the House for 6th time.
2022
MediaIte: Jake Tapper on Marjorie Taylor Greene: ‘Name a Deranged Conspiracy Theory – and This Woman Believes It’
Jake Tapper took Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) to task for her endorsement of various conspiracy theories over the years. The CNN host called Greene an “extremist” who is tolerated and even “embraced” by her fellow Republicans because of her preternatural ability to fundraise and receive the clout that goes with it. Tapper then aired a series of clips interspersed with his commentary 10.18.22 |
“She sat front row as House Republican leader Kevin McCarthy rolled out his plans for the Republican takeover in November,” he continued. “And in recent days, she told the New York Times, ‘I think that to be the best speaker of the House and to please the base, he’s going to give me a lot of power and a lot of leeway. And if he doesn’t, they’re going to be very unhappy about it… And that’s not in any way a threat at all.'” -Jake Tapper on Marjorie Taylor Greene |
2021
Dec 1, 2021: The Bulwark: Speaker Marjorie Taylor Greene
Kevin McCarthy simply takes up space while she holds the real power. Amanda Carpenter called it back in May:
“Greene knows where she stands. As long as she has Trump’s support and keeps his voters in the GOP tent, she’s calling the shots. Not McCarthy.”
Kevin McCarthy simply takes up space while she holds the real power. Amanda Carpenter called it back in May:
“Greene knows where she stands. As long as she has Trump’s support and keeps his voters in the GOP tent, she’s calling the shots. Not McCarthy.”
Nov 25, 2021: MediaIte: Marjorie Taylor Greene Says Kevin McCarthy ‘Doesn’t Have the Votes’ to Become Speaker if GOP Wins House
Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) has a podcast now, called Firebrand. He was joined by fellow pro-Trump stalwart Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), who weighed in on the growing battle within the Republican Party — suggesting that House Minority Leader Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) “doesn’t have the votes” to become speaker if the GOP flips the House in 2022.
Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) has a podcast now, called Firebrand. He was joined by fellow pro-Trump stalwart Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), who weighed in on the growing battle within the Republican Party — suggesting that House Minority Leader Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) “doesn’t have the votes” to become speaker if the GOP flips the House in 2022.
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Nov 19, 2021: Merced Sun-Star: If Kevin McCarthy can’t see the truth about ugly and violent video, Fresno doesn’t need him
Paul Gosar of Arizona, posted an animated video on Twitter that portrayed him stabbing Democrat Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York in the neck. Blood spurts out of her wound. Gosar then flies to a large image of President Biden to battle him. |
McCarthy’s hypocrisy is this: Pay homage to the U.S. military in one breath, stand by silent when a fellow Republican creates a nasty video about a duly elected member from the other party, herself an American. VALLEY NEEDS HONESTY, TRUTHFULNESS So why should this matter to people living in the central San Joaquin Valley? Because if the nonpartisan commission redrawing political boundaries has its maps adopted, McCarthy’s 23rd District could extend all the way to Clovis and Fresno starting next year. And if Democrats lose the majority in the House, McCarthy would become the next speaker, making him one of the most powerful politicians in the land, and the third in line to lead the executive branch if the president and vice president are unable to do so for whatever reason. 11.19.21 |
Nov 11, 2021: Washington Post: House Democrats introduce resolution to censure Rep. Gosar over animated video that depicted him killing Rep. Ocasio-Cortez
The resolution marks the latest Democratic backlash against Gosar over the video. On Tuesday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) called for multiple investigations into Gosar’s posting of the video and urged House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) to join in condemning the “horrific video.”
The resolution marks the latest Democratic backlash against Gosar over the video. On Tuesday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) called for multiple investigations into Gosar’s posting of the video and urged House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) to join in condemning the “horrific video.”
Oct 10, 2021: NPR: Rep. Schiff reveals impeachment regrets, tensions on Capitol Hill after insurrection
Nine months after the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., says the Capitol is a "different place."
Nine months after the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., says the Capitol is a "different place."
