Kevin McCarthy After Republicans

Kevin McCarthy remains determined to settle scores with fellow Republicans who contributed to his removal from the speakership after a 16-year pursuit. The California Republican, along with his allies, is orchestrating efforts to unseat the eight GOP lawmakers, known as the “Gaetz Eight,” who aligned with Democrats in ousting him.

Brian O. Walsh, a key McCarthy ally, is spearheading a campaign to recruit primary challengers to take on the Gaetz Eight, particularly Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) and seven others who supported the push against McCarthy. This revenge initiative aims to leverage McCarthy’s extensive donor network to support primary candidates capable of posing a credible threat to the targeted incumbents.

In a statement, Walsh emphasized the consequences for those he referred to as traitors who collaborated with Nancy Pelosi, AOC, and over 200 Democrats to undermine the institution and a duly elected Speaker. Behind the scenes, McCarthy’s allies have identified Reps. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.), Bob Good (R-Va.), and Eli Crane (R-Ariz.) as the most vulnerable among the Gaetz Eight in primary elections.

Despite McCarthy’s departure from office in October and Congress in December, his appetite for payback remains strong. The ongoing efforts showcase the influence he and his supporters can wield, highlighting the ongoing power struggle within the House GOP between hardliners and establishment conservatives.

Walsh is leading the campaign with McCarthy’s approval, keeping the former speaker briefed on its progress, along with key donors. McCarthy’s allies emphasize that his influence should be feared even from a distance, citing his public expressions of anger, including asserting that Gaetz belongs in jail and engaging in a reported physical altercation with Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) among the Gaetz Eight. Rep. Garret Graves (R-La.), a former top lieutenant of the ex-speaker, warns of the potential risks associated with an unrestrained McCarthy, particularly concerning individuals who have made questionable decisions in recent months.