A picture of Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) is leading to speculation about his true motives for seeking to defenestrate House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.)
Gaetz announced his plan to file a motion to vacate the chair and end McCarthy’s speakership after he advanced a spending bill that relied on Democratic votes to pass. And on Monday night, the Florida congressman made good on his threat.
Later on Monday, a photo showed Gaetz standing on the steps of the Capitol surrounded by reporters and illuminated by lights for cameras.
Former Republican operative Doug Heye wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, “In one picture, you know exactly why Gaetz is doing this.”
“Why Matt Gaetz is doing this, in one image,” wrote liberal commentator Aaron Rupar.
Columnist Joe Concha suggested the picture is “What the congressman dreams about every night.”
“Republicans who delight left-wing journalists,” conservative writer Melissa Braunstein chimed in.
Josué Ambriz, a former aide to former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) wrote, “This is exactly what he wants and they are just handing it to him.”
https://twitter.com/AmbrizJosue/status/1709055431157694790
The challenge to McCarthy comes amid speculation Gaetz is planning to run for governor in Florida in 2026.