On Wedenesday, after a fourth round of voting, Kevin McCarthy still lacked the 218 votes needed to obtain the speaker’s gavel.
The results of the latest votes were no better than previously-held votes. However, McCarthy vows to continue battling his detractors and become Speaker.
Representative Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.) said, “Sure, it looks messy.” He added, “But, Democracy is messy.”
During Wedenesday’s vote, Democrats reaffirmed their top-pick, Representative Hakeem Jeffries. However, the House Freedom Caucus nominated Representative Byron Donalds (R-FL). This is the first time two black Americans were nominated to the office.
Before the vote took place, Donald Trump took to Truth Social to encourage the Republican party to unite and vote for Kevin McCarthy. “Republicans, do not turn a great triumph into a giant & embarrassing defeat. It’s time to celebrate, you deserve it. Kevin McCarthy will do a good job, and maybe even a great job – just watch,” Trump said.
There it is. Trump’s strongest McCarthy endorsement by far- when he needs it the most. Floor opens at noon. Will it move the needle? pic.twitter.com/C5LfBGddY3
— Garrett Haake (@GarrettHaake) January 4, 2023
Talking to reporters late Tuesday night, McCarthy said, “today, is that the day I wanted to have? No.” He then went on to reaffirm his commitment to winning the 218 votes needed to become House Speaker.
While the Democrats continue to have control in the Senate, Republicans control the House by a narrow majority. The primary opposition to McCarthy is coming from the House Freedom Caucus, which does not believe McCarthy to be conservative enough; oftentimes characterizing him as part of the “swamp” of DC.
