Matt Gaetz Slams Kevin McCarthy Over Shutdown Deal, Plans To Challenge Speaker: 'He's Been In Brazen, Repeated Material Breach Of That Agreement'

Florida Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz is planning to challenge Speaker Kevin McCarthy's position following McCarthy's collaboration with Democrats to avert a government shutdown.

According to CNN, Gaetz expressed his intentions to file a motion to vacate this week, potentially forcing a vote on McCarthy's position. "Speaker McCarthy made an agreement with House conservatives in January and since then he’s been in brazen, repeated material breach of that agreement," Gaetz stated.

This development marks an escalation in the ongoing tensions between the speaker and the right-wing faction of his party. The tension stems from a deal McCarthy made in January, allowing a single member to advance a motion to vacate, resulting in his delicate balancing act with his party throughout the year.

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McCarthy's decision to collaborate with Democrats to pass a continuing resolution avoiding a government shutdown could potentially cost him his position. Gaetz has been discussing potential successors for McCarthy's role with Democrats.

McCarthy has remained defiant amidst this political turmoil, challenging his detractors to make a move against him. "If somebody wants to make a motion against me, bring it. There has to be an adult in the room. I am going to govern with what’s best for this country," he told CNN.

The earliest the motion could be filed is Monday, with leadership having two days to schedule the vote.

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This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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