At least five House Republicans have openly stated that they oppose Rep. Kevin McCarthy's plan to become House Speaker, setting up a major controversy to start the new year.
With only a slim majority in the House, McCarthy's leadership bid could be in jeopardy with just a small opposition.
5 Republicans publicly oppose McCarthy's speakership bid, putting ascension to leadership role in jeopardy https://t.co/ycHO7ulKY4
— Fox News (@FoxNews) November 28, 2022
"At the moment, there are at least five House Republicans who oppose McCarthy while several others are seen as on the fence," Fox News reported.
"House Republicans need a leader with credibility across every spectrum of the GOP conference in order to be a capable fighting force for the American people," said Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla. "That person is not Kevin McCarthy."
The numbers may be a concern for McCarthy in January.
"Although McCarthy won the Republican nomination for Speaker earlier this month, he still needs to come up with the 218 votes needed to officially be elected Speaker of the House by Jan. 3," Newsmax reported.
"According to The Hill, a Speaker can be elected with less than 218 votes if there are absences or vacancies or if some members vote 'present.' Democrats will have about 213 seats and will likely all vote for a Democrat nominee for Speaker, while Republicans will have about 222 seats," it added.
I've seen enough.
I cannot vote for Kevin McCarthy as House Speaker.
I do not believe he will ever get to 218 votes, and I refuse to assist him in his effort to get those votes.https://t.co/lyImFCOHgI
— Rep Andy Biggs (@RepAndyBiggsAZ) November 18, 2022
Arizona Rep. Andy Biggs (R) is among those opposing McCarthy as speaker.
"I've seen enough," he tweeted. "I cannot vote for Kevin McCarthy as House Speaker. "I do not believe he will ever get to 218 votes, and I refuse to assist him in his effort to get those votes."
At least five Republicans currently oppose McCarthy, setting up a major controversy for the party to begin next year.
With that number, McCarthy likely to fall one vote short of the number needed, opening the door for some wheeling and dealing with moderate Democrats.
Source: Fox News
