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Former House speaker Kevin McCarthy recently spoke at a heated Republican National Convention press conference, expressing satisfaction over his triumph against members who had previously challenged his leadership, specifically targeting Representative Matt Gaetz of Florida. McCarthy openly criticized Gaetz, promising to thwart his ambitions of becoming the governor of Florida.
During the event organized by the Foreign Press Center, McCarthy responded to a question from The Independent about his influence in the primary defeat of Representative Bob Good of Virginia, chairman of the House Freedom Caucus. McCarthy described Good’s defeat as a significant win in his broader effort to expel dissenters within the party, who he claims undermine Republican unity.
Focusing on Gaetz, McCarthy reiterated allegations that Gaetz engaged in sexual misconduct with a minor—allegations that Gaetz denies and which did not result in charges following a Justice Department investigation. McCarthy suggested that Gaetz’s opposition to his leadership was a retaliatory act stemming from McCarthy’s refusal to intervene in ongoing ethics investigations against Gaetz.
Additionally, McCarthy mentioned the challenges within the party when members face serious ethical allegations, reflecting negatively on the party’s image. Despite acknowledging the difficulty of defeating Gaetzs in his district, McCarthy made it clear that he believes Gaetz’s political career, especially his aspirations to run for governor, would be unlikely to succeed.
Looking ahead at upcoming elections, Gaetz faces a primary challenge from Navy veteran Aaron Dimmock, but remains the favored candidate. This contrasts with McCarthy’s support in other regions, like his backing of a candidate against Congresswoman Nancy Mace of South Carolina, who ultimately won her primary challenge.
McCarthy, who stepped down from the House at the end of 2023 after a brief stint as Speaker, left the Republican majority with a narrow margin, highlighting ongoing turbulence within the party.