McCarthy’s Farewell Speech in D.C. on Last Day as Congressman
McCarthy Gives Farewell Speech in D.C. During His Last Day as a Congressman
Republican Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California reflected on his career in the House of Representatives on Thursday as he cast his final vote before retiring from Congress just before his fellow lawmakers took a three-week break for Christmas.
The former speaker looked back on his historic ouster as well as the rest of his career as he made right on his pledge to quit before his term expires in January 2025.
McCarthy, 58, addressed a mostly empty chamber when he said he had no regrets.
“To America: I loved every single day,” McCarthy said of his 17-year tenure in Washington.
Despite his disagreements with Democrats throughout the year, McCarthy thanked members of the party for their “work” on behalf of the country.
He then offered the handful of his colleagues in attendance advice on their careers.
“Do not be fearful if you believe your philosophy brings people more freedom … that you could lose your job over it … Do it anyways. I would do it all again.”
— Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) gives a farewell speech ahead of his resignation at the end of the year pic.twitter.com/M34FNgPWXD
— The Recount (@therecount) December 14, 2023
“One thing I think we must quite understand, and if there’s advice I can give, do not be fearful if you believe your philosophy brings people more freedom,” McCarthy said. “Do not be fearful that you could lose your job over it.”
McCarthy, who held the speaker’s gavel for only nine months, then addressed the September deal he made with Democrats to fund the government, a stance that led to his removal.
“I knew the day we decided to make sure to choose to pay our troops while war was breaking out, instead of shutting down, was the right decision. I also knew a few would make a motion. Somehow they disagreed with that decision,” he said.
McCarthy said the decisions he made as the leader of the House – which culminated in him being the first speaker ever ousted from the position – were the right thing to do. He said he would not have changed anything given the benefit of hindsight.
“I would do it all again,” McCarthy said.
According to The Hill, he concluded his full remarks by telling other representatives to vote by conscience and not with ambition in mind.
“We should never allow this body to stop for doing what is right,” McCarthy concluded. “So if you come across that question of whether you should do what’s right out of fear of losing your job, do it anyways ’cause it’s the right thing to do and this is what the nation requires. I think putting people before politics is always the right answer.”
McCarthy was embraced by two of his closest GOP allies – Reps. Patrick McHenry of North Carolina and French Hill of Arkansas – after he finished his remarks.
McHenry says he will not run for re-election when his term expires in January 2025.
McCarthy announced he would vacate his seat last week in an op-ed he wrote for The Wall Street Journal.
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How did McCarthy’s call for unity and putting aside partisan differences contribute to the betterment of the nation
H included overseeing the passing of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and his support for former President Trump during the first impeachment proceedings – were all made in the best interest of the American people.
As McCarthy bid farewell to his colleagues, he also took a moment to reflect on the challenges and adversities he faced throughout his career. He recounted his upbringing, where he revealed that he was often bullied as a child. McCarthy drew a parallel between his childhood experiences and the political landscape, stating, “As a kid who was bullied, this place [Congress] was no different. But just as I did when I was a kid, I stood up to the bullies and fought for what I believed in.”
During his speech, McCarthy highlighted the importance of unity and the need for policymakers to put aside partisan differences for the betterment of the nation. He acknowledged the accomplishments achieved through bipartisan efforts and urged his colleagues to continue to work together.
As he concluded his speech, McCarthy expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the American people and represent the state of California. He thanked his staff, supporters, and fellow lawmakers for their dedication and collaboration. In a heartfelt moment, McCarthy bid farewell to his family, acknowledging their unwavering support throughout his career.
While McCarthy’s tenure in Congress may have come to an end, he assured his fellow lawmakers that he would continue to fight for the principles and values he held dear. He encouraged them to persevere and remain committed to making a positive impact on the lives of the American people.
In his final moments as a congressman, McCarthy exemplified the importance of dedication, resilience, and integrity. His farewell speech served as a reminder of the significant role public servants play in shaping the nation’s future. As McCarthy embarks on a new chapter in his life, his words will resonate in the halls of Congress and serve as a guide for future generations of leaders.
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