McCarthy Unfazed by Need for Democratic Support to Pass Short-Term Spending Bill

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is confident in his ability to pass a 45-day stopgap spending measure, even if it requires Democratic support in the lower chamber. While the bill did receive enough votes to pass, ninety-one Republicans, including members of the conservative Freedom Caucus, voted against it. This could potentially cause a revolt against McCarthy’s speakership in the coming week.

McCarthy, a Republican from California, remains unfazed by the potential backlash. He believes that putting America first is more important and that Republicans and Democrats should work together for the benefit of the country. He challenges anyone who wants to make a motion against him, stating that there needs to be an adult in the room to govern in the best interest of the nation.

Representative Matt Gaetz, a Republican from Florida, suggested that McCarthy’s speakership is on shaky ground due to his inability to pass twelve spending measures. However, Gaetz has not yet made a motion to vacate the chair and remove McCarthy from his position.

McCarthy responded to Gaetz’s criticism by stating that he went through a difficult speakership race and faced opposition from individuals, including Gaetz himself. He also referenced the delay in passing the spending bills, which hindered the progress of their conservative agenda.

The bill to extend government funding for 45 days passed in the House with a vote of 335-91. All the no votes were cast by House Republicans. The bill will now move to the Senate for an immediate vote.