The US House of Representatives is holding a 15th Speaker ballot after GOP Rep. Kevin McCarthy lost a 14th round of voting to secure the speaker’s gavel despite earlier optimism among his allies.
The final tally was 216 votes for McCarthy, 212 for Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, two for Rep. Andy Biggs and two for Rep. Jim Jordan. In addition, there were two “present” votes.
The defeat for McCarthy followed a tense exchange with Rep. Matt Gaetz on the House floor.
After Rep. Matt Gaetz voted “present” in the 14th ballot for House speaker, Rep. Kevin McCarthy went over to talk to the Florida congressman.
Gaetz pointed fingers at McCarthy and when McCarthy walked away, Rep. Mike Rogers lunged at Gaetz.
