McCarthy caught on hot mic saying he’s ‘had it’ with Cheney: report
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) on Tuesday was reportedly caught on mic saying he has “had it” with House Republican Conference Chairwoman Liz Cheney (Wyo.).
Axios reports that McCarthy was heard disparaging Cheney before an interview on “Fox & Friends.”
“I think she’s got real problems,” McCarthy was reportedly heard saying to host Steve Doocy. “I’ve had it with … I’ve had it with her. You know, I’ve lost confidence.”
McCarthy on the hot mic also reportedly indicated he expects a vote soon to remove Cheney from her leadership position.
“Well, someone just has to bring a motion, but I assume that will probably take place,” Axios quoted him saying.
McCarthy’s heated remarks contrasted with the more measured tone he took once the interview began.
During the interview, McCarthy said members of his caucus were “concerned” about Cheney’s ability to carry out her responsibilities as House Republican Conference chairwoman.
“There’s no concern about how she voted on impeachment. That decision has been made. I have heard from members concerned about her ability to carry out the job as conference chair — to carry out the message,” McCarthy said. “We all need to be working as one if we’re able to win the majority. Remember, majorities are not given; they are earned. And that’s about the message about going forward.”
The Hill has reached out to Cheney’s office for comment.
Allies of McCarthy told The Hill earlier this week that they would oust Cheney from power by the end of this month.
“There is no way that Liz will be conference chair by month’s end,” one key McCarthy ally told The Hill. “When there is a vote, it won’t be a long conference; it will be fast. Everyone knows the outcome.”
“This is a broad range of lawmakers who have had it with her,” said another McCarthy ally. “She’s a liability, and McCarthy’s as fed up as the rest of us that she is focused on the past rather than winning back the House.”
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