Chaos in the US Congress – revolt against Republican boss continues

McCarthy entered the vote optimistically. “We will progress, we will shock you,” he said before the session started. In fact, the Republican leader managed to win more approval for the first time in the twelfth ballot. He had finished behind Democratic opposition leader Hakeem Jeffries in each of the 11 ballots since Tuesday. American media speculated that McCarthy could now have the election rules changed so that the relative majority is sufficient for the election of the speaker of the parliament. This would remove the blackmail potential of the remaining internal rebels. However, a majority would have to be found for such a rule change.

The 57-year-old has recently become increasingly lenient towards his opponents, exposing himself to blackmail. The radical party rebels, many of whom are fervent supporters of former President Donald Trump, are demanding, among other things, that the rules of procedure in Congress be changed. These adjustments would strengthen their power in parliament. “Most of all, McCarthy’s most stubborn opponents seem intent on bringing him down,” according to the New York Times. The Republican faction leader repeatedly downplayed the internal revolt against him and dismissed allegations that the revolt in his own ranks was weakening him. Referring to the drama’s historical scope, he said, “I like making history.” He also holds the record for the longest speech in the House of Representatives.

Congress cannot start work
The chaos also brings the work of Congress to a standstill. Because until there is clarity about the presidency, nothing will work in the Lower House: the chamber cannot start its work. Even those with new MPs cannot be sworn in. Legislative work is excluded.