- The Washington Times - Sunday, September 24, 2023

Rep. Matt Gaetz took a victory lap Sunday for the opposition that he and a small number of hardline conservatives have mounted over funding the federal government and averting a shutdown.

In a tense interview on Fox News’ “Sunday Morning Futures with Maria Bartiromo,” Mr. Gaetz conceded that his threat to oust House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is akin to holding leadership hostage. 

“They are doing it with a political gun to their head, and you are welcome America,” the Florida Republican said, referring to forcing votes this week on individual funding bills rather than a monthlong stopgap spending measure to prevent an Oct. 1 shutdown. “We’re gonna keep making them do it.”

Mr. Gaetz is part of a small group that, because of House Republicans’ narrow majority, has tanked funding bills over their demands that more GOP priorities be advanced on spending and the southern border.

Mr. McCarthy and his allies have argued that a government shutdown would not only look bad for Republicans but also undercut their oversight of the Biden administration, including the impeachment inquiry of the president.

“If you’re saying I’m standing in the way of all the Republican wins, I’d love you to enumerate them,” Mr. Gaetz said. “If the Department of Labor and Education have to shut down for a few days as we get their appropriations in line, that’s certainly not something that is optimal, but I think it’s better than continuing on the path that we are to America’s financial ruin.”

• Ramsey Touchberry can be reached at rtouchberry@washingtontimes.com.

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