Why did Kevin McCarthy step away from the race for Speaker of the House of Representatives? originally appeared on Quora: The best answer to any question.
Answer by Kevin McCarthy, Majority Leader and Congressman (R-CA), U.S. House of Representatives, on Quora:
When I said that my leadership style is based on listening, I meant it. You may have trouble believing this — I truly didn't seek public office to be someone, but to do something for our country.
I know people are angry at Congress. I know people are frustrated by Washington's seeming inability to do the work that you send people there to do. I know people are skeptical of anything an elected official has to say. To be completely candid, I understand why you feel that way, because I feel the same way.
I truly believe that we are here as public servants; our job is to work for you — period. Your public servants should not be here to gain power or positions; we should be here to do what's best for our country.
House Republicans need a new leader that can unite them, and after many days of talking with my colleagues, it became clear that I would not be that person. The selection of a new Speaker can never be about a single person, it must be about doing what's right for the country.
We need a new start — a fresh face who can bring Congress together. I hope that my choice will help heal the wounds that are keeping well-meaning people from finding common cause for our country.