Defiant McCarthy to GOP: 'Do not be fearful' of losing your job

Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., delivered his farewell address to Congress on Thursday, urging his fellow Republicans to pursue their beliefs even in spite of the prospect of removal.

The California Republican was ousted as speaker in October amid disagreements with the conservative wing of the conference. His removal marked the first such removal in U.S. history.

"Do not be fearful if you believe your philosophy brings people more freedom. Do not be fearful that you could lose your job over it," he urged lawmakers, The Hill reported. "I knew the day we decided to make sure to choose to pay our troops while war was breaking out, instead of shutting down, was the right decision. I also knew a few would make a motion."

McCarthy appeared to reference the government spending deal he negotiated with the White House earlier this year to avert a government shutdown, which prompted conservative outrage and was a contributing factor in his removal.

"I would do it all again," he insisted.

McCarthy announced his exit from Congress by year's end earlier this month, saying "I will continue to recruit our country’s best and brightest to run for elected office. The Republican Party is expanding every day, and I am committed to lending my experience to support the next generation of leaders."

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter.