This marks the first time in U.S. history that the House has taken such action against its leader. The removal comes amidst internal strife within the Republican Party and persistent challenges from its hard-right faction.

Far-right Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz, a vocal critic of McCarthy, initiated the effort to oust the Speaker.

“Washington must change. We must put the House of Representatives on a better course. Speaker McCarthy has failed to take a stand where it matters. So if he won’t, I will,” Gaetz wrote in a social media post before the historic vote.

The removal of McCarthy underscores the growing turmoil within the Republican Party, also known as the GOP, with its hard-right faction clashing with McCarthy on multiple occasions since he assumed the role of speaker in January.

Eight Republicans broke ranks with McCarthy during the vote, dealing a blow to his chances of maintaining the majority needed to retain his position. Democrats, expressing frustration with McCarthy's alignment with the Republican Party's hard right, chose not to vote in his favor.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated that President Joe Biden hopes the House will promptly select a new speaker, emphasizing that the "urgent challenges facing our nation will not wait." Without a speaker, the House faces challenges in advancing critical bills, including vital spending legislation.

McCarthy, who announced that he will not seek re-election as speaker, served as the 55th speaker of the United States House of Representatives from January to October 2023. A member of the Republican Party, McCarthy currently represents California's 20th congressional district.

Born in Bakersfield, California, in 1965, McCarthy graduated from California State University, Bakersfield, and initially pursued a career in business before entering politics. Elected to the California State Assembly in 2002, McCarthy rose through the ranks, becoming the Republican floor leader in 2003. He was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2006, succeeding his former boss, Bill Thomas.

Throughout his political career, McCarthy demonstrated conservative Republican values and aligned himself as a strong supporter of President Donald Trump. In 2023, he assumed the role of Speaker of the House.

However, McCarthy faced criticism for his close ties to Trump, handling of the January 6th Capitol attack, and conservative views. The ousting in October 2023 was reportedly motivated by McCarthy's comments about Trump in a private meeting in January 2021, where he suggested Trump should resign after the Capitol attack.

Despite his removal from the speakership, McCarthy remains a prominent figure in the Republican Party and is considered a potential candidate for the 2024 presidential election.

Critics have accused McCarthy of being too loyal to Trump, even in the face of controversial statements. His handling of the January 6th attack drew criticism for perceived inadequacy in holding Trump accountable. Some argue that McCarthy's conservative views may be out of touch with the broader American population.

In conclusion, Kevin McCarthy's political journey is marked by influence and controversy. While a powerful figure in the Republican Party, he faces criticism for his associations, handling of critical events, and political stances. The future role of McCarthy in American politics remains uncertain. (ILKHA)