The Daily

A Crisis of Kevin McCarthy’s Own Making

Jan 3, 2023

Catie Edmondson, a congressional correspondent for The New York Times, provides keen insights into the chaos surrounding the House Speaker election. She discusses the internal fractures within the Republican Party as hard-right factions oppose Kevin McCarthy's leadership bid. Edmondson explores how McCarthy's compromises may not unify the party. The atmosphere is charged as lawmakers question his ability to garner support in a deeply divided Congress. The conversation captures the political maneuvering and uncertainty as the new legislative session begins.

33:19

Creator website

Episode guests

Catie Edmondson

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Episode notes

Intro

3min

Navigating Republican Turmoil

3min

Rise of the Tea Party: Populism and Politics

6min

Political Maneuvering and Leadership Struggles in Congress

2min

Navigating Extremes: A Republican's Dilemma

4min

Navigating Divisions: McCarthy's Leadership Dilemma

15min

Current Events Briefing: Ukrainian Strikes and Pope Benedict's Farewell

2min

This episode contains strong language.
Republicans are set to take control of the House of Representatives for the first time in four years. The transition is shaping up to be chaotic.

Today, the 118th Congress will gather for the first time in the Capitol, yet there is still a question mark over who is going to be the Republican speaker of the House.

Why is there still a fight over leadership?

Guest: Catie Edmondson, a congressional correspondent for The New York Times.

Background reading:

Representative Kevin McCarthy is struggling to break through a wall of entrenched opposition to his speakership from hard-right lawmakers even after agreeing to weaken his leadership power.
Mr. McCarthy has so far faced no viable challenger. But if he is unable to secure the votes, an alternative could quickly emerge. Here are the Republicans to watch.

For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.

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