McCarthy Allies Seek Payback Against House Rebels Who Blocked Speakership Bid
-
Kevin McCarthy and his allies are seeking to oust the 8 Republicans who joined Democrats to block him from becoming Speaker, nicknamed the "Gaetz Eight".
-
McCarthy ally Brian O. Walsh is leading an effort to recruit primary challengers against the Gaetz Eight, with McCarthy's blessing.
-
They have identified Reps. Nancy Mace, Bob Good, and Eli Crane as the most vulnerable targets in 2022 primaries. Strong candidates are already running against Mace and Good.
-
Even though McCarthy has left Congress, his allies warn he can still make life difficult for those who blocked him from becoming Speaker.
-
Recruitment efforts are underway in multiple Gaetz Eight members' districts, but some districts will be harder to find strong candidates willing to take on incumbents.