(TheRedWire.com) – Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich criticized the eight Republican representatives who voted against Kevin McCarthy in his role as House Speaker, referring to them as “traitors.” This came after Rep. Matt Gaetz from Florida led the move against McCarthy, resulting from McCarthy’s cooperation with Democrats to prevent a government shutdown.
The decision to oust McCarthy was finalized on Tuesday with the backing of these eight Republicans, many of whom had previously resisted McCarthy’s appointment in January, and all the Democrats who voted. This marked the first time a Speaker of the House in U.S. history was voted out by peers.
Among the Republicans who supported McCarthy’s removal were Gaetz, Andy Biggs (Arizona), Ken Buck (Colorado), Tim Burchett (Tennessee), Eli Crane (Arizona), Bob Good (Virginia), Nancy Mace (South Carolina), and Matt Rosendale (Montana).
Gingrich voiced his discontent in a Fox News segment, suggesting that the dissenting Republicans should be challenged in primaries. He emphasized that the majority of the Republican conference, 96%, had supported McCarthy earlier. Gingrich expressed frustration with the media’s potential to focus on internal Republican issues rather than pressing national concerns like the economy or border security.
Gingrich made a statement to Newsweek, likening the situation to a sports betrayal. He emphasized this move’s damaging impact on the party’s united front against the current administration.
In the meantime, Rep. Patrick McHenry of North Carolina will serve as speaker pro tempore until a successor is chosen. McCarthy announced he wouldn’t seek the post again, stressing the differences between true conservatives and the Republicans who opposed him. McCarthy was especially critical of Gaetz, accusing him of seeking media attention.
On the other hand, House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries described McCarthy’s ousting as a significant moment and reiterated the Democrats’ commitment to prioritizing the welfare of Americans. He hoped that traditional Republicans would distance themselves from extreme viewpoints and collaborate with the Democrats for the nation’s well-being.
The White House stated press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, expressing President Joe Biden’s anticipation for the quick election of a new House Speaker. The President said he was eager to work with the newly elected Speaker and the Senate on the nation’s priorities.
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