Kevin McCarthy says Trump wields 'more power' than Reagan, calls him 'whip and speaker' of Congress

CAMBRIDGE, MASSACHUSETTS: Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy spoke at a Harvard Kennedy School forum about the current state of American politics and the direction of the Republican Party.

In his remarks, he discussed the political climate around President Donald Trump. He also commented on how the presidency is functioning and how the administration is handling major international issues, including tensions involving Iran.

McCarthy offered strong praise for Trump. He suggested that, in the current geopolitical landscape, Trump holds more influence than Ronald Reagan once did.

Kevin McCarthy on Trump’s influence over Congress

McCarthy, during the event, shared his views on the current political balance, saying, “Right now, Trump has more power than Reagan.” He added, “We haven’t seen a president like this on either party since Roosevelt,” pointing to what he described as a stronger return to power.

He further noted, “he has a greater determination of whether a Republican wins re-election than any leader in Congress does. He raises money,” before adding, “The bills don’t pass,” highlighting concerns about legislative hiccups.

Referring to the structure of government, McCarthy said, “He's the whip and the speaker, the president is right now,” suggesting the executive branch is playing a dominant role. He continued, “If you watch Article 1, Article 2, Article 3... remember Article 1 is the power of Congress... that's kind of being usurped right now.”

Kevin McCarthy on Trump’s negotiating tactics

McCarthy also discussed the president’s approach to negotiations and how it differs from traditional styles. He said the current polling on the Iran conflict “is not high,” and added that “it’s too early to say whether it’s right or wrong,” suggesting the outcome should be judged over time.

He reflected on the political and long-term impact of such decisions, saying, “Politically the time between now and November... maybe people there,” but emphasizing that “long-term people will look and say that was a gutsy move... for the long term of the world and the country that was the right move,” pointing to broader global considerations. 

McCarthy described the president’s style as assertive and unconventional. He said Trump is "always a negotiator,” and explained that “he will negotiate tough, where he will threaten everything.” He added that “nobody knows where he’s going to go,” highlighting the unpredictable and unconventional nature of the approach.

He also pointed out that this method may feel unfamiliar, saying, “We may not be used to it by past people in this position.” However, McCarthy concluded that the strategy should be judged by its outcome, stating, “If it denies them from having a nuclear weapon, I think it’d be pretty good.”