Kevin McCarthy’s Official Portrait Unveiled
House Speaker Mike Johnson hosted a ceremony at the U.S. Capitol on September 15, 2026, to unveil the official portrait of former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy.
This event was significant, marking an uncommon moment in the Capitol’s history as it honored McCarthy (R-Calif.) with a portrait following his contentious removal from the speakership.
When a red velvet curtain fell away to reveal the portrait, the crowd erupted in applause. McCarthy then took the stage to share his thoughts with those present.
“I loved every minute of every day I was able to serve,” McCarthy began. “The good days and the bad days, and I’d do it all again.”
He expressed gratitude towards U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), calling both friends and commending their roles.
“You know how tough the job is now, huh?” he joked, looking at Johnson, who laughed. “You’ve done a great job. I’m proud to be able to call you a friend, I watched what you had to go through. I prayed for you many times.”
McCarthy also showed appreciation for former House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-Va.), recognizing his loyalty and the risks he took in support of McCarthy.
“I would not be standing here today if you did not take a risk,” he remarked. “You deserve a lot more credit than you’ve been given.”
After McCarthy’s ouster in 2023, Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.) briefly served as Speaker pro tempore. McCarthy’s time in office had been plagued with criticism, particularly after he made compromises with Democrats during a drawn-out government spending dispute, which frustrated many GOP members.
“I believe in the House,” McCarthy asserted. “I believe in having a team. I believe in being a part of that team and taking those risks.”
He referred to the foundational principles of the country, stating, “There is a reason why the founders — Madison — that the very first article was our powers. From the moment I came in here we’ve been trying to fight to get them back.”
McCarthy wrapped up his remarks by emphasizing that America is too significant to engage in “small fights.”
“America is too great for small ideas and small fights,” he concluded, drawing another round of applause.
McCarthy served as the 55th Speaker of the House from January to October 2023. As a California Republican, he held various leadership positions before becoming Speaker. His term ended abruptly with his removal by members of his own party, leading to his resignation from Congress in December 2023.
