House Republican leader Kevin McCarthy failed to gain enough votes on the first ballot to become Speaker of the House on Tuesday, throwing the new GOP majority into further turmoil and uncertainty. The GOP can’t begin governing until a speaker is chosen — an otherwise ceremonial procedure that could make history this year and drag on for days. Hours before the voting begins, House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy remains at odds with the most conservative flank of his part. Democrats in the Senate will have a say as to which bills reach the floor for votes but will face challenges getting their agenda across the finish line in a Republican-controlled House. Click the link in our bio for the latest updates.