Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, a Republican from California, announced his resignation from Congress after being ousted as House Speaker. McCarthy expressed his belief that the Biden administration’s policies have emboldened U.S. adversaries in the Middle East and highlighted a poll showing Biden losing ground among Black voters.
In an opinion piece for The Wall Street Journal, McCarthy explained his decision to leave the House at the end of the year, stating, “No matter the odds, or personal cost, we did the right thing. That may seem out of fashion in Washington these days, but delivering results for the American people is still celebrated across the country. It is in this spirit that I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways. I know my work is only getting started.” McCarthy also expressed his commitment to supporting the next generation of Republican leaders and helping entrepreneurs and risk-takers reach their full potential.
McCarthy emphasized the importance of everyday men and women in bringing about positive change in America. He wrote, “the most reliable solution to what ails America is before our eyes: everyday men and women who are raising families, showing up for work, volunteering, and pursuing the American Dream with passion and purpose.”
Reflecting on his achievements as House Speaker, McCarthy highlighted the passage of legislation to secure the border, achieve energy independence, reduce crime, hold government accountable, establish a Parents’ Bill of Rights, and address long-term global challenges by focusing on the Chinese Communist Party. He also mentioned efforts to reduce the deficit, revamp work requirements, cut red tape for domestic energy projects, and protect the full faith and credit of the U.S. McCarthy acknowledged the challenges faced during his tenure, including wars breaking out around the world, and the need to keep the government operating and troops paid.
McCarthy’s resignation marks a historic moment, as he becomes the first House speaker to be voted out of the position in U.S. history. With his departure and that of former Rep. George Santos from New York, the House GOP margin will decrease to just two at the end of the year. At the start of 2024, there will be 220 sitting Republicans and 213 Democrats, with two vacancies. This slim majority means the GOP can only afford to lose two votes when passing legislation.
Special elections have been scheduled to fill the vacant seats. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, has set a special election for Santos’ Third District on Feb. 13, while California Gov. Gavin Newsom, also a Democrat, must announce a special election date within 14 days of McCarthy’s exit.
McCarthy’s ouster as House Speaker came after a rare vote on the “motion to vacate,” orchestrated by his rival, Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida. McCarthy faced criticism for collaborating with Democrats to temporarily delay a federal government shutdown. Despite maintaining support from most Republicans in the House, McCarthy was ultimately removed from his leadership position.
McCarthy’s ascent to House Speaker earlier this year was not without challenges. It took a record 15 votes over four days for McCarthy to secure the necessary support, highlighting the deep divisions within the GOP at the time.
As McCarthy steps down from Congress, his resignation serves as a reflection of the current political landscape and the ongoing struggles within the Republican Party.
