Washington, D.C. – In a moment that underscores the ongoing dysfunction within Congress, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) revealed Sunday that President Donald Trump has been forced to act as both Commander-in-Chief and de facto Speaker of the House in order to push his America First economic agenda forward.
Speaking on Fox News with Trey Gowdy, McCarthy applauded Trump’s direct involvement with skeptical Republican lawmakers, saying his leadership was the decisive factor in moving forward a crucial budget measure.
“You can’t give President Trump enough credit,” McCarthy said. “He’s not only the president—he’s stepping in to run the House of Representatives when no one else can.”
Trump Pushes House GOP to Pass Budget Framework
Last week, House Republicans narrowly approved a Senate-backed budget framework by a vote of 216-214, laying the foundation for key elements of the Trump legislative agenda—including border security, tax reforms, and energy independence.
Many so-called fiscal conservatives had previously opposed the measure. But after meeting face-to-face with President Trump in the Oval Office, their position shifted. Trump’s strategy of direct engagement proved more effective than internal House leadership could manage on their own.
Fox’s Gowdy asked how anyone could lead a GOP caucus that “rarely takes ‘yes’ for an answer.” McCarthy’s response was clear: “The difference is Donald Trump. He got it done.”
Speaker Johnson Credits Trump After House Victory
Current House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), who succeeded McCarthy in late 2023, echoed that sentiment after the vote. “It was a good day in the House,” Johnson said. “The media doubts us. The Democrats doubt us. But under President Trump’s leadership, we deliver results.”
This legislative win marks a critical milestone for Trump’s 2025 policy push. It also highlights the ongoing tensions within the GOP, where internal divisions continue to undermine traditional leadership roles—leaving Trump to fill the gap.
Why It Matters to Conservative Americans
For older conservative voters who value strength, clarity, and action in government, Trump’s ability to lead both the executive branch and influence the House is a testament to his ongoing political power.
This latest development signals that President Trump remains the central force in conservative politics, fighting to restore America’s fiscal stability, protect national borders, and stand up to weak leadership—whether it comes from the left or his own party.