In a recent interview with Politico, former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy didn’t hold back when discussing his fellow Republican, Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida. McCarthy, who was ousted from his powerful position in Congress, didn’t mince words when he claimed that Gaetz “belongs in jail” and insinuated that the Florida lawmaker is not a serious member of the Republican party.
What’s got McCarthy seeing red? Well, it seems that Gaetz played a role in McCarthy’s fall from grace, and the former speaker isn’t too pleased about it. McCarthy hinted that an ethics complaint against Gaetz could spell trouble for the controversial congressman, drawing comparisons to a former Rep. who was expelled from Congress.
But Gaetz isn’t one to take a hit lying down. In response to McCarthy’s barbs, Gaetz fired back, accusing McCarthy of elbowing a fellow congressman and questioning the former speaker’s toughness.
Going after Gaetz would be a bad move Kevin, I wouldn't advise it. You promised and lied and were called out on it and fired, go away!
McCarthy Believes Matt Gaetz 'Belongs in Jail' – Florida Man Hits Back at Kevin's 'Fragile Ego' https://t.co/sb9XxxL3Qx
— ??Steve2A??God??Family??Country?? (@lakemonstercl1) December 3, 2023
The feud between these two Republicans isn’t something new. McCarthy had previously pointed to Gaetz as a source of chaos within the House Republican caucus after losing his powerful position, referring to the “crazy eight led by Gaetz.” Gaetz, in turn, had no qualms about taking a swing at McCarthy’s ego, suggesting that the only assault he committed was against McCarthy’s fragile pride.
It seems that this ongoing spat might be more than just a war of words. Rumors are swirling within Congress that McCarthy could be eyeing a departure from the House of Representatives in the near future, according to The New York Times. Could McCarthy’s beef with Gaetz be a factor in his possible retirement in Washington, D.C.? Only time will tell.
It’s clear that tensions are running high within the Republican ranks, and with McCarthy’s future up in the air, it looks like this political drama is far from over. The battle lines have been drawn, and it’s anyone’s guess how this feud will play out. Stay tuned for more updates on this partisan showdown!