House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R–Bakersfield) is daring opponents in his own party to try to oust him, telling them to get on with it instead of just making threats.
In a closed door meeting last week, McCarthy told fellow Republicans, “If you want to file a motion to vacate, then file the f—ing motion,” according to Rep. Brian Mast (R–Fla.).
The backstory: As part of his deal in January when he ascended to Speaker, McCarthy agreed to rules that any member of the House can call for a vote to vacate the Speaker’s chair. Such a vote would require a majority of the House to oust him.
Driving the news: Last week Rep. Matt Gaetz (R–Fla.) threatened to call a motion to vacate over the spending battle as a possible government shutdown looms at the end of the month.
- Specifically, Gaetz and other members of the GOP are calling for spending cuts and will not vote for a continuing resolution to put off a shutdown for the time being.
What they’re saying: Speaking to the press, McCarthy said he is frustrated that there has been a holdup in passing defense appropriations legislation.
- “I showed frustration in here because I am frustrated – frustrated with some people in the conference,” McCarthy said.
- McCarthy added, “We had the DoD appropriations bill yesterday, couldn’t put it on the floor. I don’t have one complaint by any member of what’s wrong with this bill.”
