The decision to remove Rep. Kevin McCarthy from his role as speaker of the House may have significantly limited the House's ability to respond to international crises like Hamas's attack on Israel.
McCarthy was removed from office on Tuesday, leaving the House of Representatives without a leader while others compete for his role. Rep. Patrick McHenry, the current speaker pro tempore, will act in McCarthy's place until someone can replace them.
Israeli Defense Forces reported they are currently in conflict in 22 locations. At least 200 residents have been killed, and 1,100 have been wounded as of 2 p.m. EST.Iran was not involved in the attack but is a known sponsor of Hamas, and it's suspected the terrorist group controlling the Gaza Strip benefitted from Iranian funding and intelligence.
McCarthy was removed this week after Rep. Matt Gaetz organized a vote in partnership with House Democrats to remove the California Republican. House Majority Whip Steve Scalise and House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan are now pursuing the role. It's unclear when a vote will be hosted to elect either to the role, although insiders expect the process to take weeks.