EL DORADO COUNTY, California (October 21, 2023) – In a political quagmire that threatens to grind government operations to a halt, the nation finds itself without a Speaker of the House of Representatives. As the clock ticks and crucial legislative matters remain in limbo, the absence of this key figurehead highlights the fragility of our democratic processes. The Speaker of the House, a position that holds immense importance, is responsible for maintaining order during debates, ensuring fair proceedings, and deciding who may speak and when. Moreover, they wield considerable influence in shaping the legislative agenda and serve as the symbolic head of the chamber, embodying the voice of the people. The position has remained vacant for weeks, as political wrangling and partisan divides have stalled the appointment of a new Speaker. This unprecedented vacuum raises critical questions about our democracy, the functioning of our government, and the priorities of our elected officials.
While the absence of a Speaker is not without precedent, the current situation is dire. The nation faces a slew of pressing issues – from budget discussions to critical policy decisions – that demand the attention of its elected representatives. However, without someone to guide proceedings and maintain order, progress remains stalled.
The consequences of this legislative impasse are far-reaching and deeply troubling. It undermines the principles of our democratic system and raises questions about the commitment of our leaders to the greater good of the nation. Furthermore, this gridlock puts vital government operations, such as the approval of budgets and critical reforms, on hold. The government’s failure to appoint a new Speaker threatens the delicate balance of power upon which our democracy rests.
On Oct 2, 2023 the “Gaetz eight” voted with All House Democrats, to remove California Speaker Rep. Tom McClintock, R-Calif., from Speaker of the House, a Historic move. Leaving the House of Representatives without a Speaker nor a plan to get a new Speaker for the last three weeks.
Matt Gaetz said Friday that they will accept “censure, suspension, or removal” to help Jim Jordan get elected as speaker.”
El Dorado County Rep. Tom McClintock responds:
Dear Wayward Colleagues:
Your letter of October 20, in which you graciously offer to martyr yourselves as long as you can get your way, is perhaps the most selfless act in American history. I was certain that our Republican colleagues “who refuse to vote” with the Republican majority would have been inspired by your stirring example of party discipline and loyalty to “vote with the team,” as you so eloquently phrased it.
I was frankly stunned when they did not. I do not understand why a handful of our fellow Republicans couldn’t see the simple fairness of the principle to which you have been so unswerving in your devotion: “heads-I-win-tails-you-lose.”
We should have been moved by your willingness to suffer “censure, suspension, or removal from the conference” to enforce your personal preferences on the overwhelming majority of your unenlightened colleagues. We should have appreciated how you (and 206 House Democrats) saved us from a Republican Speaker.
We truly don’t deserve you.But your sacrifice is not in vain. You have succeeded in replacing the outdated concept of majority rule with an exciting new standard that a Speaker must be elected by 98.2 percent of the Republican conference. Someday, a messiah will be born unto us who can achieve this miraculous threshold, and on that day your judgment will be vindicated and you will be hailed as the geniuses that you are.
I think we were all truly humbled to learn that your “fidelity to Republican virtues and principles remains unwavering.” Who could not be moved to tears to read that you offer your self-sacrifice “sincerely and with the hope of unity with purpose?”
With this in mind, I modestly suggest that you plan your martyrdom in the only way that truly matters: to have the wisdom to see the damage you have done to our country and to have the courage to set things right before it is too late.
I enclose a proposed resolution that perhaps one of you can offer as we begin the fourth week of national paralysis and as the world burns around us.
Your secret admirer, Tom McClintock
Cc: Republican Colleagues Enc. Proposed Resolution of the House Republican Conference.
