House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy on Friday called on the House GOP conference to unify in the wake of Speaker John Boehner’s decision to resign at the end of October.
“Now is the time for our conference to focus on healing and unifying to face the challenges ahead and always do what is best for the American people,” the California leader said.
Boehner stepped aside amid recent conflict within the conference between conservatives and the more moderate GOP over how to fund the government while stripping money from Planned Parenthood.
McCarthy praised Boehner’s five-year tenure as speaker, calling him a “leader, mentor, and most of all friend throughout.” McCarthy called Boehner’s decision to step down one that “takes profound humility,” and said Boehner’s “depth of character is unmatched.”
McCarthy is the leading contender to succeed Boehner as speaker, and Republicans will elect a new speaker some time before the end of October.
“As our country has weathered difficult times at home and abroad, John has acted as a true statesman, always moving forward with the best interests of the American people close to his heart,” McCarthy said. “He will be missed because there is simply no one else like him.”
House Majority Whip Steve Scalise also praised Boehner on Friday. Scalise, R-La., was elected to the leadership as a conservative who could bridge the growing gap between Boehner and the House faction of conservatives.
He is in position to succeed McCarthy as majority leader if McCarthy is chosen by Republicans to become the next speaker.
“I am eternally grateful for the steady, principled leadership Speaker Boehner has provided the House, and for the friendship and mentorship he’s given me,” Scalise said. “There is no speaker in history who has done more to defend innocent human life, to combat a lawless executive branch, and to advance a conservative governing vision for our country. His humility, patriotism, and commitment to our values will be deeply missed.”
