Kevin McCarthy
Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), a congressman who prior to redistricting represented Paso Robles, is becoming one of the quickest official to become majority leader in congressional history. [Washington Post]
Following Rep. Eric Cantor (R-Va.) primary loss on Tuesday, McCarthy, 49, is poised to win next week’s snap election to succeed Cantor as majority leader. McCarthy appears to have garnered support within the ranks.
After facing criticism that he did not have what it takes to persuade GOP lawmakers to vote with the leadership, McCarthy worked to build personal relationships within the sprawling 233-member Republican Conference through small dinners, workouts in the House gym, and long bike rides on the C&O Canal towpath.
“He’s a savant of relationships,” said Rep. David Schweikert (R-Ariz.) to the Washington Post. “He’s better at it than almost anyone I’ve ever seen.”
