What’s Happening:

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy recently gave what amounts to his endorsement of Donald Trump. The Republican leader predicted Trump would win the GOP primary, pointing to his large lead in the polls. When asked about Republican candidate Ron DeSantis, McCarthy criticized the governor, claiming he was not “at the same level” as Trump.

DeSantis is reportedly supporting the House Freedom Caucus (which he helped found) which is holding out on a spending bill. McCarthy appeared to be accusing DeSantis of helping shut down the federal government, which could derail the Biden impeach inquiry. Gov. DeSantis quickly fired back, criticizing both Trump and McCarthy.

From Daily Wire:

“And they worked hand in glove really throughout his whole presidency… And they ended up together adding $7.8 trillion to our national debt… We are different because in Florida we run budget surpluses…”

“But I’m not somebody who’s ever gonna be the favorite of the D.C. establishment,” he concluded. “And you know what? I wear that as a badge of honor.” […]

“In Florida, we run budget surpluses. We’ve paid down our debt. I’ve kept every one of my promises,” he added. “Meanwhile, McCarthy and Trump worked together to add $7 trillion — more debt than our country racked up in its first 200 years…”

Gov. Ron DeSantis was deeply critical of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy after the congressional leader criticized him. DeSantis accused McCarthy of cooperating with Trump to add $7 trillion to the national debt.

DeSantis said McCarthy worked “hand in glove” to help Trump’s agenda. He said McCarthy was with Trump “throughout his whole presidency.”

In contrast, DeSantis stated that he did not contribute to Florida’s debt. Instead, the state has a reported budget surplus. He claimed he eliminated 25% of Florida’s entire debt. DeSantis, in a knock to both Trump and McCarthy, said he “kept his promises.”

DeSantis also took credit for McCarthy’s speakership, stating that Florida’s “red tsunami” helped Republicans retake the House. While other states failed to bring strong, Republican victories, Florida added four new seats.

This war of words comes as DeSantis’ allies in the House stonewall spending talks. The federal government could come grinding to a halt if hardliners in the GOP block McCarthy’s spending deal.

Key Takeaways:

• Ron DeSantis criticized House Speaker McCarthy in response to his comments.
• DeSantis accused McCarthy of helping Trump add $7 trillion to the national debt.
• This comes after McCarthy accused DeSantis of not being on the same level as Trump.

Source: Daily Wire