Representative and former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) has announced that he will retire at the end of the month. This shocking news brought responses from members of Congress from around the country.
In his announcement, Rep. McCarthy said that serving in Congress has been “my greatest honor.”
“As the son of a firefighter from Bakersfield, my story is the story of America. For me, every moment came with a great deal of devotion and responsibility. Serving you in Congress and as the 55th Speaker of the House has been my greatest honor,” said Rep. McCarthy.
Representative Carlos Gimenez (R-FL) – a steadfast supporter of the high-ranking Republican – said that McCarthy encouraged him to run for office.
“Speaker McCarthy is a leader of conviction and I have been proud to stand alongside him. Speaker McCarthy encouraged me to run for Congress and has been an incredible advocate for our community & the nation. We will miss you on the House Floor, my friend,” said Rep. Gimenez.
Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R-IA) said that she was “proud to serve under his leadership.”
“Kevin McCarthy was an incredible Speaker. While he will be leaving Congress in a few weeks, I know his service to our party & our country won’t end anytime soon. I’m proud to have served under his leadership but even more proud to call him a friend. Thank you, Mr. Speaker,” said Rep. Hinson.
However, more conservative members of the Republican Party were not quick to congratulate the former Speaker or give him his flowers.
Representative Matt Gaetz (R-FL), a longtime opponent to McCarthy, kept it brief.
“McLeavin’,” Rep. Gaetz said.
Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) did not make a passing statement at McCarthy but simply addressed the concerns surrounding Republicans facing a shrinking majority in the House following this announcement and the expulsion of former Representative George Santos (R-NY).
“Well … Now in 2024, we will have a 1 seat majority in the House of Representatives. Congratulations Freedom Caucus for one and 105 Rep who expel our own for the other. I can assure you Republican voters didn’t give us the majority to crash the ship. Hopefully no one dies,” said Rep. Taylor Greene.
According to Business Insider, the vacancies of McCarthy, Santos, and Rep. Bill Johnson (R-OH) will leave the balance of power at 219-213.
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