Picture of Gaetz Leads to Speculation About His Real Reason for Moving to Topple McCarthy

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.

https://twitter.com/DaniellaMicaela/status/1708987967379771517

Former Republican operative Doug Heye wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, "In one picture, you know exactly why Gaetz is doing this."

https://twitter.com/DougHeye/status/1709013900430086215

"Why Matt Gaetz is doing this, in one image," wrote liberal commentator Aaron Rupar.

https://twitter.com/atrupar/status/1709013515090952305

Columnist Joe Concha suggested the picture is "What the congressman dreams about every night."

https://twitter.com/JoeConchaTV/status/1709189755546538458

"Republicans who delight left-wing journalists," conservative writer Melissa Braunstein chimed in.

https://twitter.com/slowhoneybee/status/1709041649966268582

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.