Rep. Matt Gaetz boasted in a speech to the Conservative Political Action Conference on Friday that he was turning Congress into a “living hell” for “swamp rat” Republicans who act “like Democrats in drag.” did.
“In Congress, I am often criticized, vilified, and ridiculed for exposing a corrupt system that has been weaponized against our people,” the Florida Republican said.
“I’ve made this a living hell for the swamp rats, and many of them are retired now.”
Gaez went on to say that his successful push to oust Kevin McCarthy from the House speakership last October led to more Republicans in Congress deciding to retire early rather than seek re-election in 2024. I reveled in the reports that suggested they were connected.
“You’re welcome,” he told the crowd of conservative hardliners.
“The truth is, the current Republican team cannot save the country,” Gaetz argued. “We must get tougher, we must get smarter, and we need newer, bolder voices in Congress.”
Sunshine State lawmaker says “the next step in our plan” is to replace the 23 Republicans who are opposed to seeking another term (including five committee chairs) with “America first” patriots. He suggested that this was the case. There are also members who strongly align with former President Donald Trump.
Gaetz, who is currently the subject of an investigation by the House Ethics Committee, asked the committee for reforms that would prohibit members from becoming lobbyists after leaving office or from trading stocks while in office.
He also criticized the Republican Ethics Committee chairman, Rep. Michael Guest (R-Mississippi), claiming that the congressman “became an excellent stock trader during his time in office.”
Gaetz is rumored to be considering a run for Florida governor in 2026, and has been brought to the attention of the Ethics Commission over allegations of sexual misconduct.
“I prefer to just fight the Democrats,” the Republican flame-monger finally said.
“But if Republicans are going to dress up like Democrats, I will lead the fight against them too.”
