Facts: Kevin McCarthy
Born in 1965 in Bakersfield, California, where he still lives with his wife Judy and the couple’s two children. His father was a firefighter and McCarthy is the first Republican in his family.
Started the food establishment Kevin O’s Deli when he was 21 years old. Sold it a few years later to be able to afford to continue studying economics. During his studies, he began working for Republican congressman Bill Thomas.
Elected to the House of Representatives in 2006 where he represents California’s 23rd District. Has been party whip and group leader, among other things.
Stands for traditional Republican policies such as tax cuts and smaller government apparatus. Claims to be anti-abortion, but used to be more liberal. Has made statements that can be interpreted as climate denial.
Often sleeps on the sofa in his office in Washington DC. Has said that he does not want to get “too comfortable” in the capital but goes home regularly.
Have two Australian Shepherd dogs, Teddy (named after Teddy Roosevelt) and Cash (after Johnny Cash).
Sources: McCarthy’s own site, Politico, The Hill and more
— I feel calm, McCarthy reportedly said The New York Times facing the risk of being deposed.
According to McCarthy himself, he has no intention of making concessions to the Democrats in exchange for support. Gaetz, who belongs to the right-wing phalanx of the Republicans, believes that McCarthy is cooperating too much with the White House and the Democrats.
If McCarthy were to be removed, it would be the first time in US history that a Speaker of the House of Representatives has been voted out.
Several Republicans said after a closed-door meeting that they support McCarthy, warning of chaos in Congress if he is impeached, reports Reuters. Gaetz had no comment after the meeting.
The entire House of Representatives will participate in the vote and the question is whether the Democrats, who have not yet announced, will save McCarthy. Many in the party are angry about McCarthy’s decision to green light an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. Others prefer to avoid becoming part of what they see as an internal conflict within the Republican Party.
In a conversation with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, McCarthy says he urged Democrats to “vote as you see fit.”