The agreement of Republican Kevin McCarthy with the hardline conservatives of the House of Representatives, who handed him the gavel of president in January, came to an end on Tuesday (3), when those same right-wing rebels, joined by the Democrats, expelled him from the position.
The 269-day reign of McCarthy ended with a vote of 216-210, the shortest presidency recorded in modern American political history.
The rebellion, led by conservative Congressman Matt Gaetz, a Republican from Florida, plunged the House into chaos. The measure to oust McCarthy – known as the “motion to vacate” – was supported by some far-right lawmakers who expressed deep discontent with the leader, who agreed to work together with the Democrats to avoid a government shutdown last Saturday (30).
The U.S. government was on the brink of being paralyzed, as lawmakers failed to reach an agreement on the budget for the new fiscal year. Far-right Republicans demanded that the Biden Administration cut spending, which the Democrats opposed. The deadlock was partially resolved with an agreement made between Democrats and some Republicans, with the support of the House Speaker, on a temporary budget that will allow the government to continue meeting its obligations until the final budget is approved.
The position of the Republican leader sparked the ire of far-right lawmakers and plunged the party into a civil war. During the debate, some accused Gaetz of arrogance and of throwing the House into chaos without a clear plan on who, if anyone, would take over the position.
Lawmakers returned home and will not return until next Tuesday, as the House is paralyzed without a Speaker. Republicans have until then to think of candidates for the coveted and important position. The next presidential election is scheduled to take place next Wednesday.
Source: USA Today