On Sunday, Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York expressed her readiness to support a motion that would potentially remove Speaker Kevin McCarthy of California from his leadership role. However, she emphasized that any collaboration with McCarthy would require thorough discussions.
In a recent segment on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Ocasio-Cortez clarified, “My initial vote for the Speaker position was for [House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York]. I have no plans to back a Republican for that role.” She further stated that while Republicans should manage their leadership decisions, Democrats shouldn’t be responsible for rescuing the GOP from their own issues.
She indicated that if McCarthy faced the risk of losing his Speaker position, Democrats could be open to talks. However, she added, “Any cooperation would not be without conditions.”
Traditionally, the party in the minority would favor a motion like this, aspiring to position one of its own in the Speaker’s seat.
With a limited margin for GOP dissent, McCarthy’s position could be at risk if Democrats support the motion.
Previously, McCarthy managed to narrowly avoid a government shutdown with a short-term resolution, largely relying on Democratic votes. Only a single House Democrat opposed McCarthy’s proposal, whereas 90 of his own party members voted against it.
This move has provided an opportunity for representatives like Matt Gaetz of Florida to criticize McCarthy for passing bills with Democratic support.
Ocasio-Cortez didn’t hesitate in her stance, stating, “Supporting such a motion? Definitely. Without a doubt.” She criticized McCarthy’s leadership, pointing out his last-minute decision-making that kept many Americans in suspense.
She further added that their primary focus should be on the nation’s well-being and emphasized the need for cohesive governance. Discussing the possibility of a cross-party power-sharing deal, Ocasio-Cortez noted, “Any power-sharing discussions will involve our entire caucus. But supporting a Republican for Speaker? That comes with its conditions. It’s not our primary mission here.”
