NRCC delays 2023 fall gala after McCarthy’s ouster

The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC), House Republicans’ campaign arm, delayed its 2023 fall gala scheduled for next week, as House Republicans work to elect a new House Speaker.

In a note to colleagues, NRCC Chairman Richard Hudson (R-N.C.) said House Republicans must focus on electing a new Speaker and accomplishing “the legislative work before us,” an NRCC spokesperson confirmed to The Hill. Punchbowl News was first to report. 

“I wanted to send you an important update regarding the 2023 NRCC Fall Gala in Dallas, TX,” Hudson wrote in his letter. “I want you to be the first to know — in consultation with our Leadership team and many of you — we have decided to postpone this dinner.”

“Our focus next week needs to be the election of our next Speaker and the legislative work before us,” he added.

Former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), who had been slated to headline the event, was ousted from his post in an historic vote Tuesday evening. Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.) is serving as Speaker pro tempore, and he sent members home for a week to regroup before members try again to select a Speaker.

In the letter, Hudson said he would look to reschedule the gala “in the near future,” noting that the funds raised are “as important as ever.” 

“This Gala is a high priority for the NRCC and all funds raised directly support efforts to grow our House Republican majority,” he wrote. 

“That mission is as important as ever, and I need your continued support to make it a reality. I know I can count on you,” he added. “We are working diligently to have a new date for you in the near future.”