(TheIndependentStar.com) – U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) stated that it was “absolutely” worthwhile risking his Congressional seat to lead the campaign that resulted in the ousting of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.).
In a discussion with NBC’s Kristen Welker on “Meet the Press,” Gaetz firmly stated, “Absolutely,” when questioned about the value of his efforts. He elaborated, “Look, I am here to fight for my constituents. And I’m here to ensure that America is not on a path to financial ruin.”
The move to remove McCarthy from the Speaker’s position came after Gaetz’s prolonged threats to do so, especially after McCarthy’s agreement with Democrats to prevent a government shutdown. Eight Republicans collaborated with Democrats to unseat McCarthy, marking the first such incident in U.S. history where a Speaker has been ousted.
While the House GOP is set to convene this week to select a new Speaker, Gaetz anticipates the process to be swift. He recalls the previous Speakership election, which took five days and 15 voting rounds to elect McCarthy, but is optimistic this time.
Reacting to suggestions from some Republicans about potentially removing him from Congress, Gaetz dismissed these as “crazy” and reminded that he had secured his position with approximately 70% of the votes from his district.
On being questioned by Welker about the wisdom of initiating a motion to oust McCarthy without an evident successor, Gaetz clarified, “Not only do we have a clear replacement, we have two. We have two men who are incredibly respected.”
Although McCarthy has ruled out contending for the Speakership again, Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) have expressed their intent to run for the position. Gaetz, however, refrained from endorsing either candidate during his Sunday conversation.
