Matt Gaetz labeled 'protected punk' as Kevin McCarthy accuses him of being 'on something' during RNC clash

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN: Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy retorted at Rep Matt Gaetz for confronting him at the Republican National Convention floor, saying the Florida Republican looked "very unhinged," speculating whether he was consuming any drugs.

The latest swipe indicates the lawmakers have no plan to end the longstanding Republican infighting that led to McCarthy's ouster from the speakership last year.

On July 16, Gaetz interrupted the California congressman amidst his interview with CNN anchor Kaitlin Collins on the convention floor in Milwaukee. The Florida lawmaker mocked McCarthy, asking which night he was speaking, adding he would "get booed off" if he took the stage.

Kevin McCarthy fires back at Matt Gaetz for crashing his interview on RNC floor

In a conversation with CNN's Manu Raju on Thursday, July 18, Kevin McCarthy responded to the "viral moment" initiated by his in-party rival.

"You know, he looks very unhinged," the ex-speaker said, as per Mediaite. "I mean, a lot of people have concerns about it, and I'm not sure if he was on something, but I do hope he gets the help that he needs. 

McCarthy then referred to the ongoing House Ethics Committee investigation into Geatz's alleged involvement in a sex trafficking scheme. The former speaker had earlier claimed the Florida Republican spearheaded his ouster from House leadership to stall the investigation.

"But more importantly, I hope that the young women get the justice they deserve when it comes to him," McCarthy told Raju. Admitting he was referring to the investigation, he continued, "With his partner in jail because they paid underage women for sex and drugs?"

The Californian further indicated Gaetz did not "deserve the presumption of innocence," noting people were in jail and the women subjected to sex trafficking confirmed it. "He came to me, if I decided I still wanted to be speaker, I could have done something illegal and stopped the Ethics Committee investigation that started four years before," he added.

"He believed — he wanted me to engage and thought somehow I started this investigation. It started long before I was ever speaker," the former speaker continued, adding that he was never involved in the investigations.

McCarthy further claimed Gaetz himself, other members, and people from the committee came to him; therefore, the Florida lawmaker could never deny he asked him to halt the investigation.

Internet blasts Matt Gaetz as Kevin McCarty claims he was 'on something' while confronting him

Netizens directed criticism against Matt Gaetz as Kevin McCarthy fired back for confronting him on the RNC floor. Many criticized the Floridian's alleged motive behind removing the ex-speaker, and some criticized the latest changes to his face.

"He’s on an overdose of Botox," a user wrote.

"Matt went waaay overboard on the Botox and looks ridiculous. Maybe he should join Real Housewives of Miami. He’d fit right in," another remarked.

"We all know Gaetz wanted his investigation stopped and that was the primary reason he pushed for the McCarthy ouster," added a user.

"They're both crooked af, but hey Kevin i believe this time. Gaetz, well i don't. one is denying. the other is providing accounts. why else did Gaetz file the motion to vacate?" read another response.

"Why do ppl keep voting these ppl. Republicans not listening. Look how they welcomed their felons back at the convention. Matt Gaetz should’ve been held accountable but because of money, color & being elite he has been to walk around as a predator like Trump!" another person wrote.

"Gaetz needs to be investigated," someone else said.

"Can’t stand McCarthy but fully respect his complete distain for Matt Gartz," an individual wrote.

"Gaetz is a prime example of what happens when you grow up as a spoiled and protected little punk. He's never been punched in the face," another commented below Mediaite's article.

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