Interim House Speaker Patrick McHenry, a Republican from North Carolina, faced backlash and criticism from liberals on social media after he evicted former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat from California, from her private Capitol office.
Many pro-Democrat users on social media platforms expressed their disapproval of McHenry’s decision, calling it “petty,” “mean,” and “authoritarian.” They argued that this move lacked class and respect for tradition and norms in the House of Representatives.
McHenry had informed Pelosi of her eviction through an email, citing the reassignment of her hideaway office for “speaker office use” and instructing her to vacate the space immediately.
Nancy Pelosi’s spokesperson confirmed that her belongings were being moved on the same day with the assistance of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries’ staff. Pelosi criticized the move as one of the first actions taken by the new Speaker Pro Tempore, while she was in California to attend a funeral.
Several liberal figures, including Maria Shriver, Rep. Jim McGovern, and others, expressed their disapproval of McHenry’s decision and accused Republicans of being mean and petty. Some even labeled the move as authoritarian and criticized the lack of mutual respect in the House.
Bill Kristol, editor at large of The Bulwark, suggested that Pelosi and Steny Hoyer’s offices should be restored when Hakeem Jeffries is elected Speaker, emphasizing the importance of magnanimity in victory.
Overall, the move to evict Pelosi from her office sparked a strong reaction on social media, with liberals condemning it as disrespectful and partisan.