The House of Representatives voted this afternoon (Oct. 3) on whether Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy would retain his position. In a close vote of 216 to 210, a handful of GOP members led by Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz were joined by a united Democrat caucus to oust the Speaker. This is the first time such a vote has been held in more than 100 years.
Just several hours before the Motion to Vacate vote took place, Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries posted a statement on X (nee Twitter) saying that – for a number of reasons – “House Democratic Leadership will vote yes on the pending Republican motion to Vacate the Chair.”
The motion to vacate the Speaker’s chair came courtesy of fellow Republican lawmaker Rep. Matt Gaetz (FL), who accused McCarthy of breaking promises made to the GOP caucus. Prior to the vote, Gaetz noted that he was confident he had enough support to either unseat the incumbent Speaker or force McCarthy to rely upon Democrat support.
The House must now seek to nominate a new Speaker. Until it does, a Speaker Pro Tempore will assume the position.
Liberty Nation will be following this story and providing a full analysis as the events play out.
