Following the recent removal of Kevin McCarthy as House Speaker, Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., has taken on the role of interim leader of the House of Representatives. When McCarthy assumed the speakership in January, he had to create a confidential list of potential successors for the speaker pro tempore position, if ever it became vacant. After the vote, it was unveiled that McHenry was the primary choice on this list.
McHenry’s political journey includes serving North Carolina’s 10th Congressional District since 2004. Prior to his congressional role, he worked as a media consultant and political strategist. In 2015, he was appointed the House Republican chief deputy whip and held that position till 2019. He also became the head of the House Financial Services Committee at the start of this year. As the acting speaker pro tempore, McHenry will hold the responsibilities and powers of the House speaker until a permanent replacement is elected.
The decision to oust McCarthy was made through a close 216-210 vote. This move was initiated by Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., following internal disagreements within the Republican Party regarding a government shutdown resolution. Eight Republicans, inclusive of Gaetz, along with the Democrats, voted against McCarthy’s continued leadership.
In related news, Rep. Greg Murphy, R-N.C., mentioned that there would be a candidate forum to discuss the successor on Tuesday, followed by a conclusive vote on Wednesday.
