Matt Gaetz files motion to oust Kevin McCarthy as House speaker

On Feb. 22, 2021, Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) submitted a motion to House GOP leaders to “remove Kevin McCarthy as Speaker of the House.” Gaetz, who has been emerging as a leader within the MAGA wing of the Republican Party, called for McCarthy and the GOP leadership to “reevaluate their approach to representing the will of the Republican electorate” and to “prioritize making sure the voice of the American people is heard.” Gaetz cited a number of issues, including immigration, healthcare, and fiscal responsibility. Although the motion is likely to meet strong opposition in the GOP caucus, it marks a bold move by Gaetz to challenge the party’s leadership.