Former Speaker Kevin McCarthy talks politics, 2024 election

Kevin McCarthy spoke at a session of the AHA Annual Meeting that covered his time as Speaker of the House, what issues will be at the center of the 2024 election and the current state of American politics. Immigration, abortion and the economy will be the forces that drive voters of both parties to the polls this election season, McCarthy said, and he predicted a tight race not only for the White House, but for both chambers of Congress.

McCarthy also spoke on the lack of civility and bipartisanship in American politics. “We think not only that one side has to win, but the other side has to be destroyed,” he said. “That’s not how our country works … it can be a win for both sides.”

During a Q&A session, McCarthy was asked if he had any advice for current Speaker Mike Johnson. “Govern fearlessly,” he said. “Do what you think is right; history will prove you right or wrong.”