Kevin McCarthy's tenure as Speaker of the House began in January with 15 roll call votes to claim his gavel. It ended with a single vote to vacate the speaker's chair, leaving Washington in chaos.
Promises and Challenges
McCarthy made promises but struggled to fulfill them. His challenge: a Republican majority that refused to be governed.
Narrowly Averted Crises
McCarthy narrowly pulled the country back from the brink of crisis twice during his tenure. But his actions and words antagonized hard-line Republicans, Democrats, and the White House.
Failure to Unite. Divided Republican Majority
McCarthy failed to unite a deeply divided Republican majority that craved insurgency and confrontation. Normalcy often took a back seat.
Clash with Far Right
Despite courting the far right to secure his position, McCarthy ultimately fell out of favor with them when he couldn't deliver on their priorities, especially on spending.
Alienating Democrats
McCarthy promised Democrats a role in governing but pursued intensely partisan legislation. He even initiated an impeachment inquiry into the Democratic president.
Trust Deficit
McCarthy's trust deficit ran deep among both Republicans and Democrats. Many saw him as someone who frequently betrayed his word.
Democrats' Dilemma
Democrats faced a dilemma when considering McCarthy's removal, torn between concerns about what would come next and their distaste for some of his allies.
McCarthy's Departure
In the end, McCarthy's departure from the speaker's role became inevitable, with Democrats unwilling to support him and a faction of right-wing Republicans opposing him.