Kevin McCarthy Announces Retirement from Congress Following Historic Ouster

Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has announced his retirement from Congress at the end of December, following his historic ouster from his leadership role in October. McCarthy's departure comes amid growing polarization in Congress and follows the retirement announcement of Rep. Patrick McHenry. McCarthy had been considering his future since his ouster and expressed the need to make the right decision. His downfall as speaker came after making concessions to secure the position, leading to a no-confidence vote triggered by a fellow Republican. McCarthy's successor, House Speaker Mike Johnson, has so far avoided a similar fate. McCarthy has openly criticized the Republicans who voted for his removal and questioned their motives.