Staff Reports
Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is now at the center of a political firestorm following his decision to join the Aspen Economic Strategy Group, a think tank that has opened its arms to some of the most recognizable figures of the Biden administration, including John Podesta and Janet Yellen. This alliance has ignited accusations that McCarthy is cozying up to the “uniparty,” a term that’s gaining traction among conservatives fed up with establishment politicians from both major parties undermining true conservative values.
The Aspen Economic Strategy Group, a branch of the not-so-beloved Aspen Institute, recently announced its new member lineup. Among political luminaries including Steven Mnuchin and Rahm Emanuel, McCarthy’s name shines alongside Podesta—a known figure from Hillary Clinton’s failed presidential campaign—and Yellen, who has served as Treasury Secretary under Biden. It is this pairing that has caused conservatives to raise their eyebrows and clench their fists in indignation, signaling all too clearly that McCarthy is playing for the other team.
Not surprisingly, the backlash was swift and furious. Former Congressman Matt Gaetz, who spearheaded McCarthy’s expulsion from the Speaker’s chair, was quick to voice his disdain. Underlining a growing sentiment among the Republican base, Gaetz’s social media tirade captured the angst of many conservatives who feel betrayed by McCarthy’s latest career choice. Accusations flew like confetti at a party—calls to label him a “snake” and doubts about his dedication to the America First principles were rampant.
Here. Now think back people. All you that were whining about kicking McCarthy to the curb being a bad thing? I want you to print those words out on a big, thick sheet of paper and eat the entire thing.
Stop knee jerking and start thinking long range.https://t.co/S5ruKoIkuT
— WatcherNine (@zzbeards) March 14, 2025
Once regarded as a promising figure within the GOP, McCarthy has struggled to reclaim the trust of conservative voters following his ouster in October 2023—the first time in history a sitting Speaker was replaced in a floor vote. His failure to deliver on critical conservative priorities, particularly concerning fiscal responsibility and border security, paved the way for his downfall, led by Gaetz and other unwavering members of the House Freedom Caucus. His new association raises very real questions about where McCarthy’s true loyalties lie.
The inclusion of Podesta and Yellen in the Aspen group only adds fuel to the fire of suspicion about McCarthy’s commitment to conservatism. Podesta, a longtime strategist for the Democrats and a figure firmly entrenched in controversial policies like the push for green initiatives, epitomizes the antithesis of conservative thought. Meanwhile, Yellen’s tenure has resulted in soaring inflation and imprudent spending habits that have left many American families gasping for air amidst rising costs. Joining hands with such individuals not only confounds expectations but also raises the stakes for any Republican who dares to call themselves a leader.
This new turn of events casts a long shadow on McCarthy’s future in the party. As conservatives continue to hold their ground against the establishment juggernaut, it’s evident that McCarthy’s days as a prominent figure might be numbered if he cannot shake off the uniparty image that now seems to cling to him like a bad stain.
