MSNBC Panel Mocks Republican’s Speaker Replacement Proposal

MSNBC Panel Mocks Republican's Speaker Replacement Proposal

Former Illinois Representative Joe Walsh unexpectedly elicited laughter from an MSNBC panel after proposing who Republicans might select as their next House Speaker. His suggestion, though earnest, leaned into revisiting the past—a possibility the panelists found hard to take seriously.

Walsh’s Bold Prediction: Kevin McCarthy

During an appearance on The Weekend, Walsh suggested Kevin McCarthy as a “wonderful turn” for the speakership. This proposition came despite McCarthy having been replaced by current Speaker Mike Johnson in October 2023. Walsh’s remark caught the panel off guard, drawing skepticism about the plausibility of Republicans returning to McCarthy so soon.

The Democratic Stance and Mike Johnson’s Challenges

Symone Sanders opened the discussion, highlighting an upcoming election for the House Speaker role. She noted that Johnson’s prospects for retaining the position appeared bleak. Referencing previous instances, Sanders explained how Democrats had previously stepped in to save Johnson’s speakership but were now explicitly stating, “Not this time.”

Quoting an Axios report, Sanders revealed that several Democrats who had supported Johnson before were now withdrawing their backing. She succinctly put forth the question, “If not Mike Johnson, then who?”

Laughter Ensues: Walsh Doubles Down on McCarthy

Joe Walsh wasted no time in responding, confidently naming Kevin McCarthy. His statement was met with an extended silence from panelists Symone Sanders and Michael Steele before both broke into laughter.

Walsh defended his suggestion, saying, “The best thing Johnson has going for him is the calendar. Trump has plans for January that require a stable Speaker.” Walsh speculated that Trump might even support McCarthy’s return, calling it a “wonderful turn” of events.

Criticism of the Proposal

April Ryan swiftly dismissed the idea, questioning the logic of revisiting McCarthy’s ousting. She asked, “How many votes were there to oust Kevin McCarthy? Do we want to go through that again?”

Alicia Menendez joined the discussion, noting the timing of the election coinciding with an Electoral College count on January 6, just ahead of Donald Trump’s potential inauguration. Ryan, however, downplayed concerns about the Electoral College, stating that Democrats were unlikely to obstruct Trump’s presidency.

Underlying Issues for Republicans

The discussion also highlighted deeper problems within the Republican Party. Johnson’s primary challenge lies in his failure, alongside Trump, to pass a spending bill earlier in the month. Ryan emphasized, “The infighting within the Republican Party is harsh, and if they can’t get it together, people’s pocketbooks will be impacted. Politics is personal.”

Key Points at a Glance

EventDetails
Joe Walsh’s SuggestionProposed Kevin McCarthy as the next Speaker.
Mike Johnson’s PositionFaces significant opposition within his own party.
Democrats’ StanceUnlikely to support Johnson’s speakership again.
Major ChallengesFailure to secure a spending bill; intense GOP infighting.

FAQs

Why did Joe Walsh propose Kevin McCarthy for Speaker again?

Walsh believes Trump might back McCarthy and sees his return as a strategic move amidst ongoing Republican turmoil.

Why is Mike Johnson’s position as Speaker at risk?

Johnson has struggled to unify the GOP and failed to pass critical legislation like the spending bill, leading to significant internal opposition.

What role do Democrats play in the Speaker election?

In the past, Democrats have helped save Johnson’s speakership. However, they have made it clear they will not do so this time.

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