Kevin Owen McCarthy is an American politician who served as the 55th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from January to October 2023. Born on January 26, 1965, in Bakersfield, California, McCarthy's political career spans over three decades, marked by significant milestones and events that shaped his rise and eventual departure from the House leadership.
Main Milestones
Birth
January 26, 1965
Kevin Owen McCarthy was born in Bakersfield, California, to Roberta Darlene (née Palladino) and Owen McCarthy.
Early Entrepreneurship
1984
At age 19, McCarthy used a $5,000 lottery win to open Kevin O’s Delicatessen in the corner of his uncle’s frozen yogurt shop. He later sold the deli and used the proceeds to continue his education.
Education
1989 and 1994
McCarthy earned a Bachelor of Science in marketing in 1989 and a Master of Business Administration in 1994 from California State University, Bakersfield.
California State Assembly
2002-2006
McCarthy was elected to the California State Assembly, serving two terms and becoming the Republican floor leader in 2003.
U.S. House of Representatives
2006
McCarthy was first elected to the United States House of Representatives as a representative for California's 22nd district.
Speaker Campaign and Withdrawal
2015
McCarthy formally announced his candidacy for Speaker of the House after John Boehner's resignation but dropped out of the race due to lack of support and allegations of an affair.
House Minority Leader
2019-2023
McCarthy was elected House Minority Leader, succeeding Paul Ryan and leading the House Republicans through the 2022 elections.
Election as Speaker
January 7, 2023
McCarthy was elected as the 55th Speaker of the House of Representatives on the 15th ballot, marking the longest multi-ballot speaker vote since 1895.
Removal as Speaker
October 3, 2023
McCarthy was voted out of his role as Speaker of the House by House Democrats and eight House Republicans, becoming the first speaker to be removed during a legislative session.
Resignation Announcement
December 6, 2023
McCarthy announced his resignation from the House, effective at the end of 2023.
End of Term
December 31, 2023
McCarthy's term officially ended, marking the conclusion of his tenure in the House of Representatives.
