Former Speaker Kevin McCarthy Mulls Whether to Run for Reelection

Former Speaker Kevin McCarthy Mulls Whether to Run for Reelection
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The Spin

Narrative A

If someone still had any doubts over why McCarthy was ousted, this interview has unequivocally demonstrated his inability to hold the gavel — and even to seat in Congress. He appears not to understand that he was fired because he failed to align with what the GOP base instructs and make good on his promises while spending taxpayers' money.

Narrative B

While McCarthy isn't irreplaceable, his potential retirement from Congress is another indication that the era when the GOP valued its diversity and embraced good-faith disagreements may be gone forever. Matt Gaetz and his Gang of Eight are willing to push the Republican conference to the extremes, even if that means risking the implosion of the party and losing control of the House.

Metaculus Prediction


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