Staff Reports
In a fiery and passionate response, Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) strongly opposed the idea of Speaker Pro Tempore Patrick McHenry (R-NC) becoming the interim Speaker for an extended period of time. Gaetz didn’t hold back as he said, “I’m against Speaker Light. I’m against Bud Light. I believe it is a constitutional desecration to not elect a Speaker of the House. We need to stay here until we elect a Speaker.” Wow, Gaetz really knows how to make a point!
WATCH: Gaetz Gives Perfect Response To GOP's Temporary Speaker Planhttps://t.co/xZjgd1KO1o
— 🇺🇸🇺🇸Josh Dunlap🇺🇲🇺🇲 ULTRA-MAGA (@JDunlap1974) October 19, 2023
It’s no surprise that there is tension surrounding the House Speaker position, especially with the recent ousting of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA). McHenry, who currently chairs the House Financial Services Committee, is seen as a strong contender for the role, and that’s got a lot of people talking. And by people, I mean the folks in those fancy lobbyist circles.
See, McHenry has some close ties with the corporate world, especially the financial sectors. And that has watchdog groups and critics worried about the potential for undue influence from big money moguls. I mean, who wants that? Not me, that’s for sure!
But don’t think this race for House Speaker is a simple one. It’s got more twists and turns than a roller coaster! Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH) has failed twice, Rep. Steve Scalise (R-LA) suddenly withdrew, and now all eyes are on McHenry. Even former Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-GA) and ex-Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) have thrown their support behind McHenry, hoping he can bring an end to all the “gridlock and chaos.” Good luck with that!
But here’s the kicker, in order for McHenry to secure the interim Speaker position, he needs support from Democrats. It’s like asking the fox to guard the henhouse! Rep. David Joyce (R-OH) has already shown his support, but who knows if that will be enough. And to add even more drama to the mix, Jordan is backing McHenry as full interim Speaker through January. Oh, the suspense! Can’t you just feel it?
As the days drag on with no clear resolution in sight, conservatives like Gaetz are getting more and more anxious. Everyone just wants a definitive plan in place, is that too much to ask? Come on, politicians, get your act together and let’s get a speaker elected already!
