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.
The Gaetz scrum tonight ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/MihAEvbY7d
— Daniella Diaz (@DaniellaMicaela) October 2, 2023
Former Republican operative Doug Heye wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, “In one picture, you know exactly why Gaetz is doing this.”
In one picture, you know exactly why Gaetz is doing this. https://t.co/DdNIGcCwB8
— Doug Heye (@DougHeye) October 3, 2023
“Why Matt Gaetz is doing this, in one image,” wrote liberal commentator Aaron Rupar.
why Matt Gaetz is doing this, in one image https://t.co/1ejyTmjRtc
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) October 3, 2023
Columnist Joe Concha suggested the picture is “What the congressman dreams about every night.”
What the congressman dreams about every night. In one photograph. https://t.co/cTf9qrrbFs
— Joe Concha (@JoeConchaTV) October 3, 2023
“Republicans who delight left-wing journalists,” conservative writer Melissa Braunstein chimed in.
Republicans who delight left-wing journalists https://t.co/cxzPZcDGdm
— Melissa Braunstein (@slowhoneybee) October 3, 2023
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.”
This is exactly what he wants and they are just handing it to him. https://t.co/fKDBhggxFc
— Josué Ambriz (@AmbrizJosue) October 3, 2023
The challenge to McCarthy comes amid speculation Gaetz is planning to run for governor in Florida in 2026.