House Republicans Elect McCarthy Speaker After 15 Embarrassing Trys

WASHINGTON D.C. – The battle to confirm Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) as House Speaker is finally over and the groundwork has been laid for the 118th Congress.

But the multiday, historically long process laid bare the divisions and potential issues McCarthy and House Republicans face as they seek to pass legislation, launch investigations and get reelected in two years.

It took bitterly divided House Republicans 15 trys to finally elect a leader and allow the United States House of Representatives to begin the work of the People.  

Fox News is reporting House Speaker Kevin McCarthy officially opened the 118th Congress early Saturday morning, holding the speaker’s gavel and conducting a chamber-wide swearing-in ceremony for new members.

"As Speaker of the House, my ultimate responsibility is not to my party, my conference, or even our Congress. My responsibility – our responsibility – is to our country," the Californian continued. "Two months ago, you voted for a new direction for our country. You embraced our Commitment to America. And now, we are going to keep our commitment to you." McCarthy said in his opening remarks.  

Closing his remarks, McCarthy said: "Our nation is worth fighting for. Our rights are worth fighting for. Our dreams are worth fighting for. Our future is worth fighting for."

The Congress, reflecting the mood across the country, remains deeply divided over political issues and it remains to be seen if that governing body in far away Washington can act on any legislation benefitting the American people.  

Democrats remain in control of the Whitehouse and the Senate virtually assuring the 118th Republican led Congress will be unable to pass any meaningful legislation.