Tensions flared within the closed-door meeting of House Republicans on Thursday, highlighting the deep divisions and internal discord within the House GOP conference as they struggle to unite around a plan to prevent a government shutdown.

An altercation between GOP Representative Matt Gaetz and Speaker Kevin McCarthy escalated during the meeting, as reported by an insider present.

Gaetz confronted McCarthy, questioning whether McCarthy’s associates were financially backing conservative influencers who were using social media to criticize Gaetz—an allegation circulating on social platforms and one that the speaker’s office has denied.

According to the source inside the room, McCarthy retorted that he had no intention of investing his time or resources in Gaetz, CNN reported.

Another source added that McCarthy responded by suggesting he was unaware of Gaetz’s priorities but emphasized his commitment to donating $5 million to help secure the majority.

“I asked him whether or not he was paying those influencers to post negative things about me online,” Gaetz told CNN’s Manu Raju.

The relationship between McCarthy and Gaetz has been fraught with tension for an extended period.

Gaetz has taken a leading role in advocating for a vote to remove the speaker, as pressure mounts on McCarthy amid the government shutdown spending dispute.

Additionally, staunch conservatives are resisting the idea of passing any form of short-term funding extension to keep the government operational.

Written by staff