WASHINGTON, D.C. — The members of Congress who represent the state of Utah are not happy with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy being ousted.
Reps. Blake Moore, John Curtis and Burgess Owens all voted against removing McCarthy — a move that was spearheaded by Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida.
Moore, who represents Utah's 1st Congressional District, shared his disappointment and indicated that he felt it was a step backward for the Republican Party.
In part, Moore's statement reads:
"Today, Matt Gaetz and seven other members put our ability to hold the line against the Biden Administration’s out-of-control agenda in jeopardy by working with Democrats to oust our Republican Speaker instead of moving forward with votes on our conservative policies and appropriations bills.
"Over the course of this year, Matt Gaetz and several other members have sided with Democrats to block Republican spending cuts; further Biden’s progress on liberal priorities like ESG; halt a comprehensive border security package; delay critical oversight of the administration; and much more. Today’s vote was not about Kevin McCarthy’s performance as speaker or disagreement over the House Republican agenda.
"Today’s vote was about Matt Gaetz and his insatiable desire for attention.“
Curtis, who represents District 3, said he feels the Speaker's removal served no productive purpose.
"Congress set a new low today. Republicans turning on Republicans and Democrats standing around with lighter fluid and matches. No one’s interest was served with the removal of Kevin McCarthy. Instead of working on the budget, the border and run-away inflation we’re reenacting our high school years. I stand ready to work with any reasonable member of Congress to put this back together again and work on the real problems of our day."
In a statement posted to social media, Owens echoed those of his colleagues from Utah:
"Further complicating matters, today eight House members aligned with Democrats - one individual driven by a personal vendetta - to disrupt the legislative process.
"With only 43 days remaining to pass essential appropriations, their actions are a setback to our conservative agenda. Speaker McCarthy has a strong record, from robust border security measures to significant spending cuts and military pay raises. I continue to fully support him."
