The House of Representatives has undergone a historic change as Rep. Kevin McCarthy has been voted out as Speaker of the House. This marks the first time in history that a speaker has been ousted from their post in the middle of their term. The vote, which took place on Tuesday in Washington, D.C., resulted in McCarthy losing by a narrow margin of 216 to 210.
Key Takeaway
Rep. Kevin McCarthy has been voted out as Speaker of the House, making history as the first speaker to be ousted mid-term. The vote highlights divisions within the Republican party, and it remains to be seen when a new Speaker will be selected.
Call for Change
Leading up to the vote, Rep. Matt Gaetz filed a motion to have McCarthy removed as Speaker, citing his dissatisfaction with McCarthy’s collaboration with Democrats to prevent a government shutdown. Gaetz had been vocal about his intention to challenge McCarthy’s leadership, asserting that “Chaos is Speaker McCarthy. Chaos is somebody who we cannot trust with their word.”
A Historic Decision
The decision to remove McCarthy is a significant moment in the history of the House of Representatives. It is not only the first time a speaker has been ousted mid-term, but it is also the first time in over a century that the House has taken a floor vote challenging the Speaker. The vote underscores the divisions within the Republican party and the shifting dynamics in the House.
Interim Leadership
With McCarthy’s removal, Rep. Patrick McHenry, a Republican from North Carolina, takes over as Speaker Pro Tempore. McHenry was already designated as a potential replacement by McCarthy in the event of a vacancy. However, it remains uncertain when the House will hold a vote to select a new Speaker or if McCarthy will attempt another run at the position.
Impact on Succession
The role of Speaker of the House is of significant importance, as the elected official holds the position of third in line to the Presidency, after the Vice President. With McCarthy’s removal, the President pro tem of the Senate, Sen. Patty Murray, assumes the third position in the line of succession until a new Speaker is chosen.
