Right

Aug 03, 2023

Members of the House Freedom Caucus at a press conference in May. Photo: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images.

A group of right-wing House Republicans on Tuesday sabotaged a procedural vote teed up by GOP leadership in a bid for retribution over the debt ceiling bill that passed last week.

Why it matters: It signals a renewed willingness by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy's detractors to break with norms to hold his feet to the fire.

Zoom in: Heated discussions took place on the floor between top Republicans and right-wingers, most notably House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) and Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-Ga.), as the vote was unfolding.

Driving the news: The vote to advance four bills, including a measure to prohibit the federal government from banning gas stoves, failed 206-220.

The backdrop: The right has been up in arms after McCarthy shepherded an agreement with President Biden to raise the debt ceiling last week.

What they're saying: "We took down the rule because we're frustrated at the way this place is operating," said Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.).

He and others said they want promises from McCarthy to prioritize passing legislation with conservative votes rather than Democratic ones.

What we're watching: The lawmakers signaled this is one of several tactics that could serve as alternatives to the motion to vacate – a procedural tool to force a vote on ousting McCarthy.