Democratic Lawmakers Float Striking Deal with McCarthy for Speaker's Vote

With House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) facing a more turbulent road to the speakership after Republicans’ lackluster gains on election night, some Democrats argue that attempting to strike a deal with the California Republican in exchange for speaker votes on the floor could be beneficial as other Democrats float attempting to nominate an alternative GOP choice like outgoing Rep. Liz Cheney (R-WY) to serve in the role.

As members of the conservative House Freedom Caucus threaten to withhold their votes for McCarthy unless he gives them concessions on a number of demands, Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) floated the idea of McCarthy attempting to seek support across the aisle.

“Just cut a deal with the Dems Kevin. Whatever you get from Freedom Caucus will not be worth it. The odds will be good but the goods will be odd,” the Arizona Democrat tweeted on Thursday.