WASHINGTON >> In a shocking turn of events, House Republican Kevin McCarthy has been removed from the speakership with support from Democrats. This unprecedented move came after a motion to vacate from Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., passed with bipartisan support. McCarthy’s swift removal from office, less than nine months into his tenure, has left lawmakers from both parties bewildered and uncertain about the future.
Following McCarthy’s removal, Republican Rep. Patrick McHenry has assumed the role of acting speaker. However, McHenry’s powers are limited compared to a duly elected speaker. He cannot bring legislation to the floor, issue subpoenas, or conduct official House business without the approval of the speaker.
The immediate focus now is on electing a new speaker. Without McCarthy in the running, House Republicans must decide on a nominee. Potential candidates include Majority Leader Steve Scalise, Whip Tom Emmer, Rep. Kevin Hern, and Rep. Jim Jordan. The election process can be a lengthy one, as seen in January when it took McCarthy 15 rounds to secure the speakership.
Once a speaker candidate has been chosen, the clerk will announce the results. The transition process, which typically involves a bipartisan committee escorting the speaker-elect to the chair for the oath of office, is uncertain in this particular instance. It is customary for the minority leader to join the successor at the speaker’s chair, symbolizing a potential working relationship between party leaders.
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AP Congressional Correspondent Lisa Mascaro contributed to this report.
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