US President Joe Biden and House Republican Speaker Kevin McCarthy will meet to discuss the debt ceiling on Monday (May 22), after a "productive" phone call as the president headed back to Washington. The nation could default on its bills as early as June 1.

Biden and McCarthy to meet as debt ceiling talks resume

Will Biden, McCarthy reach an agreement over US debt crisis?

US President Joe Biden is set to meet House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on Monday ( May 22) regarding debt ceiling talks after they spoke on the phone while the former was on his way home after attending the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan.

US President Joe Biden is set to meet House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on Monday ( May 22) regarding debt ceiling talks after they spoke on the phone while the former was on his way home after attending the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan. Speaking to reporters after the call, McCarthy sounded 'upbeat' and said he was more hopeful about reaching a decision. "Our teams are talking today and we're setting (sic) to have a meeting tomorrow. That's better than it was earlier. So, yes." “I think we can solve some of these problems if he understands what we’re looking at.” The speaker added, “But I’ve been very clear to him from the very beginning. We have to spend less money than we spent last year.” White House officials also confirmed the meeting but offered no specific time or place for it, according to a Reuters report. With the deadline to raise the debt ceiling (June 1) precariously close, the talks between the Democrats and the Republicans had seemingly come to an impasse. The frustration was palpable as Biden, prior to leaving Japan, termed the demands of GOP lawmakers as 'unacceptable'. ALSO READ | US debt ceiling: Biden to ring McCarthy from Air Force One to restart negotiations "Much of what they've already proposed is simply, quite frankly, unacceptable. It's time for Republicans to accept that there is no bipartisan deal to be made solely, solely on their partisan terms. They have to move as well," Biden told a news conference in Hiroshima The Republicans have rejected the Biden administration's proposal to raise the debt ceiling, which otherwise used to be a routine affair. They have been demanding that the White House announce budget cuts if it wants support for the measure. Meanwhile, Democrat lawmakers such as Tina Smith, Elizabeth Warren, Ed Markey and Bernie Sanders have advised Biden to use his authority under the 14th Amendment of the Constitution to continue paying the US government’s bills, even if the ceiling is not raised. WATCH | What is the US debt ceiling & what happens if it isn’t raised? × What is the debt limit? A debt limit is the amount of money that the US government can borrow to meet its financial obligations such as social security, military salaries and Medicare benefits payments. Congress earlier this year extended the statutory debt limit to $31.4 trillion. However, the weak economic fundamentals and overflowing expenditures mean that the US will be breaching the limit. Consequently, Congress has been engaged in a fierce tussle to raise the limit. ALSO READ | EXPLAINED: What's US debt ceiling & why is it such a big deal? If congressional lawmakers cannot make a decision quickly, the world's largest economy could risk defaulting on its debt. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Debt ceiling: Biden, McCarthy to meet Monday after 'productive' phone call

As the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan comes to an end, US President Joe Biden has turned his attention towards the debt ceiling crisis. Biden will hold a call with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy about the issue during his flight back home, aboard Air Force One, according to a Bloomberg report.&nbsp;

With&nbsp;the deadline to raise the debt ceiling (June 1) precariously close, the talks between the Democrats and the Republicans have come to an impasse.&nbsp;According to US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, even the extraordinary measures, if implemented, will only buy the government a limited amount of time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The GOP lawmakers have rejected the Biden administration's proposal to raise the debt ceiling, which otherwise used to be a routine affair. They have been demanding that the White House announce budget cuts if it wants support for the measure.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Democrat lawmakers such as&nbsp;Tina Smith, Elizabeth Warren, Ed Markey and Bernie Sanders have advised Biden&nbsp;to use his authority under the 14th Amendment of the Constitution to continue paying the US government’s bills, even if the ceiling is not raised.&nbsp;

According to them, the 14th Amendment of the Constitution should be used as an escape route. The law states: "The validity of the public debt of the United States...shall not be questioned."

Even Biden has considered the alternative, but experts fear that using it would trigger a legal battle, as well as undermine global faith in USA's creditworthiness and damage the economy.&nbsp;

“I have been considering the 14th Amendment. And a man I have enormous respect for, Larry Tribe, who advised me for a long time, thinks that it would be legitimate. But the problem is it would have to be litigated," said Biden last week.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-debt-ceiling-biden-told-to-use-14th-amendment-escape-hatch-by-democrat-lawmakers-594382">ALSO READ | US debt ceiling: Democrat lawmakers ask Biden to use ‘14th Amendment’ to evade debt default</a>

<h2>What is the debt limit?</h2>

In layman's terms, a debt limit is the amount of money that the US government can borrow to meet its financial obligations such as social security, military salaries and Medicare benefits payments.&nbsp;

Congress earlier this year extended the statutory debt limit to $31.4 trillion. However, the weak economic fundamentals and overflowing expenditures mean that the US will be breaching the limit. Consequently, Congress has been engaged in a fierce tussle to raise the limit.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-is-the-us-debt-ceiling-what-happens-if-it-isnt-raised-593402">WATCH |&nbsp;What is the US debt ceiling &amp; what happens if it isn’t raised?</a>

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With the Senate under the control of Democrats and the House in Republican hands, it is highly unlikely that a straightforward limit hike will be possible.

If the congressional lawmakers cannot make a decision quickly, the world's largest economy could risk defaulting on its debt.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan comes to an end, US President Joe Biden has turned his attention towards the debt ceiling crisis. Biden will hold a call with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy about the issue during his flight back home, aboard Air Force One, according to a Bloomberg report.

As the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan comes to an end, US President Joe Biden has turned his attention towards the debt ceiling crisis. Biden will hold a call with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy about the issue during his flight back home, aboard Air Force One, according to a Bloomberg report. With the deadline to raise the debt ceiling (June 1) precariously close, the talks between the Democrats and the Republicans have come to an impasse. According to US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, even the extraordinary measures, if implemented, will only buy the government a limited amount of time. The GOP lawmakers have rejected the Biden administration's proposal to raise the debt ceiling, which otherwise used to be a routine affair. They have been demanding that the White House announce budget cuts if it wants support for the measure. Meanwhile, Democrat lawmakers such as Tina Smith, Elizabeth Warren, Ed Markey and Bernie Sanders have advised Biden to use his authority under the 14th Amendment of the Constitution to continue paying the US government’s bills, even if the ceiling is not raised. According to them, the 14th Amendment of the Constitution should be used as an escape route. The law states: "The validity of the public debt of the United States...shall not be questioned." Even Biden has considered the alternative, but experts fear that using it would trigger a legal battle, as well as undermine global faith in USA's creditworthiness and damage the economy. “I have been considering the 14th Amendment. And a man I have enormous respect for, Larry Tribe, who advised me for a long time, thinks that it would be legitimate. But the problem is it would have to be litigated," said Biden last week. ALSO READ | US debt ceiling: Democrat lawmakers ask Biden to use ‘14th Amendment’ to evade debt default What is the debt limit? In layman's terms, a debt limit is the amount of money that the US government can borrow to meet its financial obligations such as social security, military salaries and Medicare benefits payments. Congress earlier this year extended the statutory debt limit to $31.4 trillion. However, the weak economic fundamentals and overflowing expenditures mean that the US will be breaching the limit. Consequently, Congress has been engaged in a fierce tussle to raise the limit. WATCH | What is the US debt ceiling & what happens if it isn’t raised? × With the Senate under the control of Democrats and the House in Republican hands, it is highly unlikely that a straightforward limit hike will be possible. If the congressional lawmakers cannot make a decision quickly, the world's largest economy could risk defaulting on its debt. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US debt ceiling: Biden to ring McCarthy from Air Force One to restart negotiations

US&nbsp;President Joe Biden and top congressional Republican Kevin McCarthy will meet&nbsp;on Tuesday to make progress on a deal to raise the US government's $31.4 trillion debt ceiling. The meeting will be aimed at averting what the experts have cautioned as an&nbsp;economically catastrophic default that may become a reality amid the ongoing debt ceiling deadlock.

Meanwhile, the US Treasury Department on Monday reiterated its warning that it could run short of money to pay all its bills as soon as June 1. This, the department added, would trigger a default which is&nbsp;likely to spark a sharp economic downturn.

ASLO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pres-biden-house-speaker-mccarthy-meeting-on-debt-ceiling-ends-with-no-movement-talks-to-continue-590804">US Pres Biden, House Speaker McCarthy meeting on debt ceiling fails to break deadlock, threat of default looms</a>

House of Representatives Speaker McCarthy on Tuesday told reporters that his party, which controls the chamber by a 222-213 margin, would only agree to a deal that cuts spending.

"We can raise the debt ceiling if we limit what we're going to spend in the future," McCarthy told reporters.

Both Republican and Democratic parties have agreed on the need for urgent action on debt ceiling.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Biden, McCarthy debt ceiling meeting postponed, spending cuts on table

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The White House meeting, which will include Biden, McCarthy, Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, top Senate Republican Mitch McConnell and top House Democrat Hakeem Jeffries, is scheduled to begin on Tuesday late afternoon.

'Time is running out'

In the past week, staffs for both sides have discussed a range of issues, including spending caps, new work requirements for some benefit programs for low-income Americans.&nbsp;

"Time is running out. Every single day that Congress does not act, we are experiencing increased economic costs that could slow down the US economy," Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told a group of bankers. "There is no time to waste."

Earlier in 2011, a&nbsp;similar 2011 standoff led to a historic downgrade of the United States' credit rating. That downgrade sparked a selloff in stocks and pushed the government's borrowing costs higher.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Biden, McCarthy debt ceiling meeting postponed, spending cuts on table

The current standoff has rattled investors, sending the cost of insuring exposure to US government debt to record highs. A Reuters/Ipsos poll completed on Monday found that three-quarters of Americans fear that a default would take a heavy toll on families like theirs.

"Nobody should use default as a hostage," Schumer said in a Senate speech on Tuesday. "The consequences would be devastating for America."

Meanwhile, McCarthy is keen to hold&nbsp;one-on-one talks with Biden.

"If the president comes to an agreement, the Democrats in the Senate will vote for it. The House will pass it, if we are all in agreement," McCarthy said. "Why do we waste more time going around and around, not solving any of the real problems? I think you’re putting the country in jeopardy when you do that."

Adding to the challenge of striking a deal, McCarthy agreed when he became speaker early this year to a change in House rules that allows for just one member to call for his ouster as leader of the chamber, which gives greater power to hardliners, including the roughly three dozen members of the House Freedom Caucus.

(With inputs from agencies)

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US President Joe Biden and top congressional Republican Kevin McCarthy will meet on Tuesday to make progress on a deal to raise the US government's $31.4 trillion debt ceiling.

US President Joe Biden and top congressional Republican Kevin McCarthy will meet on Tuesday to make progress on a deal to raise the US government's $31.4 trillion debt ceiling. The meeting will be aimed at averting what the experts have cautioned as an economically catastrophic default that may become a reality amid the ongoing debt ceiling deadlock. Meanwhile, the US Treasury Department on Monday reiterated its warning that it could run short of money to pay all its bills as soon as June 1. This, the department added, would trigger a default which is likely to spark a sharp economic downturn. ASLO READ | US Pres Biden, House Speaker McCarthy meeting on debt ceiling fails to break deadlock, threat of default looms House of Representatives Speaker McCarthy on Tuesday told reporters that his party, which controls the chamber by a 222-213 margin, would only agree to a deal that cuts spending. "We can raise the debt ceiling if we limit what we're going to spend in the future," McCarthy told reporters. Both Republican and Democratic parties have agreed on the need for urgent action on debt ceiling. ALSO WATCH | Biden, McCarthy debt ceiling meeting postponed, spending cuts on table × The White House meeting, which will include Biden, McCarthy, Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, top Senate Republican Mitch McConnell and top House Democrat Hakeem Jeffries, is scheduled to begin on Tuesday late afternoon. 'Time is running out' In the past week, staffs for both sides have discussed a range of issues, including spending caps, new work requirements for some benefit programs for low-income Americans. "Time is running out. Every single day that Congress does not act, we are experiencing increased economic costs that could slow down the US economy," Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told a group of bankers. "There is no time to waste." Earlier in 2011, a similar 2011 standoff led to a historic downgrade of the United States' credit rating. That downgrade sparked a selloff in stocks and pushed the government's borrowing costs higher. ALSO WATCH | Biden, McCarthy debt ceiling meeting postponed, spending cuts on table The current standoff has rattled investors, sending the cost of insuring exposure to US government debt to record highs. A Reuters/Ipsos poll completed on Monday found that three-quarters of Americans fear that a default would take a heavy toll on families like theirs. "Nobody should use default as a hostage," Schumer said in a Senate speech on Tuesday. "The consequences would be devastating for America." Meanwhile, McCarthy is keen to hold one-on-one talks with Biden. "If the president comes to an agreement, the Democrats in the Senate will vote for it. The House will pass it, if we are all in agreement," McCarthy said. "Why do we waste more time going around and around, not solving any of the real problems? I think you’re putting the country in jeopardy when you do that." Adding to the challenge of striking a deal, McCarthy agreed when he became speaker early this year to a change in House rules that allows for just one member to call for his ouster as leader of the chamber, which gives greater power to hardliners, including the roughly three dozen members of the House Freedom Caucus. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Time is running out’ as Joe Biden, McCarthy meet in bid to resolve US debt ceiling deadlock

U.S. stocks slouched to a higher close on Monday, and benchmark Treasury yields rose amid flickering optimism that Washington will get past partisan wrangling and reach a debt ceiling deal.

US debt crisis: First-ever US debt default on cards? | World DNA

As US lawmakers come to a deadlock on US debt limit talks, they are yet to resolve the crisis. The US Deputy Treasury Secretary is the latest to appeal for a solution to the ongoing standoff. On the other hand, President Joe Biden and Republican leader Kevin McCarthy will meet again on Tuesday with hopes riding high for their meeting.

US debt crisis: US may run out of cash by June 1 | Biden cancels post G7 Asia tour

United States President Joe Biden and Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy held talks to discuss the "catastrophic" debt crisis, but the negotiations ended on Tuesday (May 16) after less than an hour, without any breakthrough.&nbsp;

The White House said Biden was "optimistic that there is a path to a responsible, bipartisan budget agreement if both sides negotiate in good faith." But McCarthy told reporters there was still "a lot of work to do" to break the high-stakes standoff with Biden over the borrowing limit.&nbsp;

"I did think this one was a little more productive... We've got a short timeframe here to try to find out how we could come to an agreement," McCarthy told reporters, as he said that Biden is attempting to achieve a debt ceiling agreement before June 1 in order to avert economic disaster.&nbsp;

According to McCarthy, Republican Congressman Garrett Graves will meet with White House counsellor to Biden, Steve Ricchetti, and Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young as part of efforts to resolve the debt ceiling standoff.&nbsp;

The Treasury has warned of dire implications if the country runs out of funds to pay its debts, which would prevent it from paying federal employees and precipitate a likely rise in interest rates, which would have ramifications for businesses, mortgages, and global markets.&nbsp;

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said Monday that the nation could begin defaulting on its debts "potentially as early as June 1", while the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office has forecast June 15. &nbsp;

According to the White House, Biden has asked his staff to "continue to meet daily on outstanding issues," and that he will consult with Republican leaders after returning from the G7 meetings.

Republicans have insisted on large expenditure cutbacks in exchange for their support for raising the debt ceiling, dismissing Democratic requests for a "clean" rise with no strings attached.&nbsp;

The president departs on Wednesday for a three-day G7 conference in Japan, but according to a source, Biden decided on Tuesday to miss subsequent stops in Papua New Guinea and Australia.&nbsp;

The White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said that Biden would depart for Japan on Wednesday as scheduled but a subsequent stop in Australia is being "reevaluated".

"We're working though, thinking through, the rest of the trip right now," Kirby said, further clarifying that "there's not been a cancellation as yet, but that could happen. We'll see where it goes..."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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United States President Joe Biden and Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy held talks to discuss the "catastrophic" debt crisis, but the negotiations ended on Tuesday (May 16) after less than an hour, without any breakthrough.

United States President Joe Biden and Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy held talks to discuss the "catastrophic" debt crisis, but the negotiations ended on Tuesday (May 16) after less than an hour, without any breakthrough. The White House said Biden was "optimistic that there is a path to a responsible, bipartisan budget agreement if both sides negotiate in good faith." But McCarthy told reporters there was still "a lot of work to do" to break the high-stakes standoff with Biden over the borrowing limit. "I did think this one was a little more productive... We've got a short timeframe here to try to find out how we could come to an agreement," McCarthy told reporters, as he said that Biden is attempting to achieve a debt ceiling agreement before June 1 in order to avert economic disaster. According to McCarthy, Republican Congressman Garrett Graves will meet with White House counsellor to Biden, Steve Ricchetti, and Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young as part of efforts to resolve the debt ceiling standoff. The Treasury has warned of dire implications if the country runs out of funds to pay its debts, which would prevent it from paying federal employees and precipitate a likely rise in interest rates, which would have ramifications for businesses, mortgages, and global markets. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said Monday that the nation could begin defaulting on its debts "potentially as early as June 1", while the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office has forecast June 15. According to the White House, Biden has asked his staff to "continue to meet daily on outstanding issues," and that he will consult with Republican leaders after returning from the G7 meetings. Republicans have insisted on large expenditure cutbacks in exchange for their support for raising the debt ceiling, dismissing Democratic requests for a "clean" rise with no strings attached. The president departs on Wednesday for a three-day G7 conference in Japan, but according to a source, Biden decided on Tuesday to miss subsequent stops in Papua New Guinea and Australia. The White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said that Biden would depart for Japan on Wednesday as scheduled but a subsequent stop in Australia is being "reevaluated". "We're working though, thinking through, the rest of the trip right now," Kirby said, further clarifying that "there's not been a cancellation as yet, but that could happen. We'll see where it goes..." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Biden 'optimistic', Kevin McCarthy says 'a lot of work to do' on debt ceiling talks

United States President Joe Biden held a meeting with top lawmakers at the Oval Office, on Tuesday (May 9) in a bid to break a deadlock over raising the $31.4 trillion debt limit, as the country faces the risk of an unprecedented default. After the high-stakes meeting, Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said that there was no new “movement” which&nbsp;essentially indicated that no agreement was reached.&nbsp;

The meeting was also attended by Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell and the top Democrats in Congress, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer.&nbsp;

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen warned that Washington could run short of cash to pay all of the government’s bills as soon as June without a debt limit increase. The top lawmakers will continue talks on Friday.&nbsp; 
 
The high-stakes meet 
 
The high-stakes meeting between lawmakers lasted about an hour, while the aides may continue negotiations as soon as Tuesday night on the federal budget. Biden called the meeting “productive” while McCarthy said, “I didn’t see any new movement”.&nbsp;

“Everyone in the meeting understood the risks of default,” said the US president, adding that the House speaker, during the meeting said, that the country will not default on its debt. “We need to take the threat of default off the table,” said Biden after the meeting, adding that default “is not an option”.&nbsp;

McCarthy, after the meeting talking to reporters and seemingly complaining about the US president said that Biden did not agree to talks until time was running out and, “That’s not a way to govern.”&nbsp;

Furthermore, Schumer, a Democrat, blamed McCarthy for refusing to take default off the table and that the House speaker was “greatly endangering America.” While Jeffries said Republicans had waited for weeks to publish a budget and that “extreme” Republicans “have indicated that they are willing to take us down the path of default.”

On the other hand, McConnell blamed Biden for not being serious about negotiations.

What are Biden’s options now?

According to reports, officials in the White House have discussed whether Biden has the authority to lift the debt limit by invoking the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution, on his own. However, in an interview, last week the US president said that they are not there yet.&nbsp;

Republican-led House&nbsp;

The Republican-led House of Representatives passed a bill, in April, that would raise the debt ceiling in exchange for budget cuts to healthcare for the poor, transportation, and so on. The bill would implement $4.5 trillion in spending cuts in exchange for a $1.5 trillion increase in the US debt limit.&nbsp;

However, it is very unlikely to pass the Democrat-controlled Senate while the White House has previously said that the president would veto the legislation.&nbsp;

Notably, as the speaker of the House McCarthy has primary control over US budget issues and Biden has said he would not accept these deep cuts, the impasse has raised the possibility of Congress and the White House overseeing the first national debt default.&nbsp;

Biden might cancel Asia trip

After the meeting, Biden indicated that he might cancel his upcoming trip to Asia for Group of Seven (G7) meetings. When asked about the meetings, he said that it is “possible” that he would not make the trip, “If somehow we got down to the wire and still haven't resolved this... I would not go,” the US president told reporters, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Yellen’s warning

In a letter addressed to the House speaker and other lawmakers&nbsp;earlier this month, Yellen had warned, “Our best estimate is that we will be unable to continue to satisfy all of the government's obligations by early June, and potentially as early as June 1, if Congress does not raise or suspend the debt limit before that time.”

She added, “It is impossible to predict with certainty the exact date when Treasury will be unable to pay the government’s bills, and I will continue to update Congress in the coming weeks as more information becomes available.”

Yellen has also recently&nbsp;said that unless Congress acts in the coming weeks, “financial and economic chaos would ensue.” If the debt ceiling is not raised or suspended by Congress the government risks defaulting on payment obligations which would have a significant impact on the US economy.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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United States President Joe Biden held a meeting with top lawmakers at the Oval Office, on Tuesday (May 9) in a bid to break a deadlock over raising the $31.4 trillion debt limit, as the country faces the risk of an unprecedented default.

United States President Joe Biden held a meeting with top lawmakers at the Oval Office, on Tuesday (May 9) in a bid to break a deadlock over raising the $31.4 trillion debt limit, as the country faces the risk of an unprecedented default. After the high-stakes meeting, Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said that there was no new “movement” which essentially indicated that no agreement was reached. The meeting was also attended by Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell and the top Democrats in Congress, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen warned that Washington could run short of cash to pay all of the government’s bills as soon as June without a debt limit increase. The top lawmakers will continue talks on Friday. The high-stakes meet The high-stakes meeting between lawmakers lasted about an hour, while the aides may continue negotiations as soon as Tuesday night on the federal budget. Biden called the meeting “productive” while McCarthy said, “I didn’t see any new movement”. “Everyone in the meeting understood the risks of default,” said the US president, adding that the House speaker, during the meeting said, that the country will not default on its debt. “We need to take the threat of default off the table,” said Biden after the meeting, adding that default “is not an option”. McCarthy, after the meeting talking to reporters and seemingly complaining about the US president said that Biden did not agree to talks until time was running out and, “That’s not a way to govern.” Furthermore, Schumer, a Democrat, blamed McCarthy for refusing to take default off the table and that the House speaker was “greatly endangering America.” While Jeffries said Republicans had waited for weeks to publish a budget and that “extreme” Republicans “have indicated that they are willing to take us down the path of default.” On the other hand, McConnell blamed Biden for not being serious about negotiations. What are Biden’s options now? According to reports, officials in the White House have discussed whether Biden has the authority to lift the debt limit by invoking the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution, on his own. However, in an interview, last week the US president said that they are not there yet. Republican-led House The Republican-led House of Representatives passed a bill, in April, that would raise the debt ceiling in exchange for budget cuts to healthcare for the poor, transportation, and so on. The bill would implement $4.5 trillion in spending cuts in exchange for a $1.5 trillion increase in the US debt limit. However, it is very unlikely to pass the Democrat-controlled Senate while the White House has previously said that the president would veto the legislation. Notably, as the speaker of the House McCarthy has primary control over US budget issues and Biden has said he would not accept these deep cuts, the impasse has raised the possibility of Congress and the White House overseeing the first national debt default. Biden might cancel Asia trip After the meeting, Biden indicated that he might cancel his upcoming trip to Asia for Group of Seven (G7) meetings. When asked about the meetings, he said that it is “possible” that he would not make the trip, “If somehow we got down to the wire and still haven't resolved this... I would not go,” the US president told reporters, as quoted by news agency AFP. Yellen’s warning In a letter addressed to the House speaker and other lawmakers earlier this month, Yellen had warned, “Our best estimate is that we will be unable to continue to satisfy all of the government's obligations by early June, and potentially as early as June 1, if Congress does not raise or suspend the debt limit before that time.” She added, “It is impossible to predict with certainty the exact date when Treasury will be unable to pay the government’s bills, and I will continue to update Congress in the coming weeks as more information becomes available.” Yellen has also recently said that unless Congress acts in the coming weeks, “financial and economic chaos would ensue.” If the debt ceiling is not raised or suspended by Congress the government risks defaulting on payment obligations which would have a significant impact on the US economy. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US Pres Biden, House Speaker McCarthy meeting on debt ceiling fails to break deadlock, threat of default looms

The US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is presently on a two-day visit to the state of Israel. He will be addressing the Israeli Parliament later in the day today. Kevin McCarthy will meet his Israeli counterpart Amir Ohana in Jerusalem.

US Speaker McCarthy to address Israeli Parliament, meets Israeli speaker in Jerusalem | WION

With President Joe Biden under pressure to negotiate and avert a disastrous federal default this summer, Speaker Kevin McCarthy's House Republicans narrowly approved Wednesday sweeping legislation that would raise the government's legal debt ceiling by $1.5 trillion in exchange for severe spending restrictions.

US house passes Republican debt ceiling bill, Democrats call the bill 'Ransome note'

China is not pleased with the meeting of Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen and US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. For the second day in running, Beijing sent its warships and aircraft off the Taiwan coast to intimidate the island country and its allies.

China is not pleased with the meeting of Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen and US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. For the second day in running, Beijing sent its warships and aircraft off the Taiwan coast to intimidate the island country and its allies. According to Taiwan's defence ministry, three Chinese warships were found circling the island while a fighter jet and anti-submarine helicopter were seen lurking dangerously close to the island's air defence identification zone. Prior to the meeting on Wednesday, China had placed a fleet of ships led by the Shandong aircraft carrier. The fleet led by the aircraft carrier passed through the Bashi Channel separating Taiwan from the Philippines and then into waters to Taiwan's southeast. Subsequently, Washington also deployed its USS Nimitz aircraft some 400 nautical miles (740.8 km) off eastern Taiwan. The island nation's Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng confirmed the position of Nimitz while carefully avoiding claims that it was deployed due to the presence of the Shandong. WATCH | US House Speaker McCarthy meets Taiwan's President Tsai, China vows 'resolute' response China sanctions Reagan library Apart from flexing military muscles as pressure tactics, Beijing is also using diplomatic routes to assert itself. According to reports, Xi Jinping's government has imposed sanctions against the Ronald Regan Presidential Library — the venue of the rare, high-level meeting between Tsai and McCarthy. John Heubusch, former executive director of the Reagan Foundation; Joanne M. Drake, chief administrative officer of the Reagan Foundation have been also named in the sanctions list and any property or financial assets belonging to them or the library in China would be frozen. Apart from the Reagan Library, the Hudson Institute think tank and its director and chair of the board of directors have also been put under sanctions. Tsai had accepted a leadership award from the Hudson Institute as part of her trip to the US. ALSO READ | US, Chinese aircraft carriers flex muscles near Taiwan coast after Tsai's meeting with US House speaker Tsai completes the historic trip Despite the Chinese threat of action, Tsai went ahead with the meeting and even released statements, seemingly targeting Beijing. “It is no secret that today the peace we have maintained and the democracy which (we) have worked hard to build are facing unprecedented challenges,” said Tsai in remarks alongside McCarthy. The meeting was extremely significant as McCarthy became the senior most US figure to meet a Taiwanese leader on American soil in decades A miffed China released a statement immediately after and said, “We will take resolute measures to punish the ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist forces and their actions, and resolutely safeguard our country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China sanctions Reagan library, stations warship, aircraft near Taiwan after Tsai-McCarthy meet

Taiwan on Thursday claimed that a Chinese anti-submarine helicopter and three warships had been detected around the island. This comes after President Tsai Ing-wen met US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in Los Angeles, a move which has angered Beijing. The meeting was significant as McCarthy become the senior most US figure to meet a Taiwanese leader on American soil in decades. He also said that there's an urgent need to speed up arms deliveries to Taiwan in the face of increasing threats from China.&nbsp;

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence said in a statement: "1 PLA aircraft and 3 PLAN vessels around Taiwan were detected by 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today."&nbsp;

It added: "Armed Forces have monitored the situation and tasked CAP aircraft, Navy vessels, and land-based missile systems to respond to these activities."&nbsp;

Beijing claims Taiwan as its own territory since the Chinese civil war of the 1940s and also said that the island nation will defy China's one-nation policy by pushing for formal independence. Beijing even claimed that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two territories.&nbsp;

Taiwan has its own constitution and leaders are elected democratically and the US says it backs the sovereignty of the island nation - the same war reiterated by Pelosi during her visit.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Xi Jinping's China unilaterally appoints Bishop in Shanghai&nbsp;

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On Wednesday, Taiwan Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng told reporters at parliament in Taipei that the Chinese carrier, the Shandong, was spotted and&nbsp;at that time, it was 200 nautical miles off Taiwan's east coast.&nbsp;

Chiu said, adding aircraft had yet to be seen taking off from its deck: "It is training but the timing is quite sensitive, and what it is up to we are still studying."&nbsp;

China reacted to Tsai's headliner meeting with the US speaker but did not threaten specific action. The Chinese defence ministry said in a statement: "The Chinese People's Liberation Army adheres to its duties and missions, maintains a high degree of alert at all times, resolutely defends national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and resolutely maintains peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Taiwan on Thursday claimed that a Chinese anti-submarine helicopter and three warships had been detected around the island. This comes after President Tsai Ing-wen met US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in Los Angeles, a move which has angered Beijing.

Taiwan on Thursday claimed that a Chinese anti-submarine helicopter and three warships had been detected around the island. This comes after President Tsai Ing-wen met US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in Los Angeles, a move which has angered Beijing. The meeting was significant as McCarthy become the senior most US figure to meet a Taiwanese leader on American soil in decades. He also said that there's an urgent need to speed up arms deliveries to Taiwan in the face of increasing threats from China. Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence said in a statement: "1 PLA aircraft and 3 PLAN vessels around Taiwan were detected by 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today." It added: "Armed Forces have monitored the situation and tasked CAP aircraft, Navy vessels, and land-based missile systems to respond to these activities." Beijing claims Taiwan as its own territory since the Chinese civil war of the 1940s and also said that the island nation will defy China's one-nation policy by pushing for formal independence. Beijing even claimed that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two territories. Taiwan has its own constitution and leaders are elected democratically and the US says it backs the sovereignty of the island nation - the same war reiterated by Pelosi during her visit. WATCH | Gravitas: Xi Jinping's China unilaterally appoints Bishop in Shanghai × On Wednesday, Taiwan Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng told reporters at parliament in Taipei that the Chinese carrier, the Shandong, was spotted and at that time, it was 200 nautical miles off Taiwan's east coast. Chiu said, adding aircraft had yet to be seen taking off from its deck: "It is training but the timing is quite sensitive, and what it is up to we are still studying." China reacted to Tsai's headliner meeting with the US speaker but did not threaten specific action. The Chinese defence ministry said in a statement: "The Chinese People's Liberation Army adheres to its duties and missions, maintains a high degree of alert at all times, resolutely defends national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and resolutely maintains peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Chinese aircraft, warships spotted around Taiwan as Tsai meets US speaker

China's foreign ministry on Thursday (April 6) condemned the meeting between US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen in California. The ministry vowed a resolute response to the high-level meeting.

China's foreign ministry on Thursday (April 6) condemned the meeting between US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen in California. The ministry vowed a resolute response to the high-level meeting. "In response to the seriously erroneous acts of collusion between the United States and Taiwan, China will take resolute and effective measures to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity," the ministry said in a statement published by the news agency Xinhua. The ministry further said that Wednesday's meeting gravely violated the one-China principle. "The Taiwan question is at the very core of China's core interests and the first red line that must not be crossed in China-US relations," it added. Earlier too, Beijing had repeatedly warned against the meeting between McCarthy and Tsai. ALSO READ | China deploys aircraft carrier group off Taiwan coast ahead of Tsai's meeting with US House speaker China has vowed to bring Taiwan under its control, by force if necessary, and staged war games around the island in August last year following a visit by then-US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Ahead of Wednesday's meeting (between McCarthy and Tsai), Taiwan's defence ministry said that a Chinese aircraft carrier group had been deployed in the waters off the island's southeast coast. The ministry said the Chinese ships led by the carrier, the Shandong, passed through the Bashi Channel, adding they were going for training in the Western Pacific. Beijing has not commented on this development yet. US must continue arms sales to Taiwan: McCarthy Following his meeting with Taiwanese President Tsai, US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said that Washington must continue its arms sales to Taiwan and strengthen economic cooperation with trade and technology. "We must continue the arms sales to Taiwan and make sure such sales reach Taiwan on a very timely basis," McCarthy said at a press conference alongside Republican and Democratic lawmakers who took part in the bipartisan meeting with Tsai. ALSO READ | Foxconn founder announces Taiwan presidential run, bats for warm relations with China Democratic Congressman Pete Aguilar said he looked forward to more such meetings in the future, while Republican Mike Gallagher responded to China's objections by saying, "If the duly elected leader of one of our most important democratic partners can't meet with American leaders on American soil, then we are merely feeding the crocodile that will eventually eat us." Gallagher also told reporters he would like to look for ways to get Harpoon missiles to Taiwan ahead of those scheduled to go to Saudi Arabia. US support shows Taiwan is not isolated: Tsai During a joint press conference with US House Speaker McCarthy, Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen said that the American support showed that Taipei is not isolated and not alone in the face of Chinese anger. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China condemns meeting between US House speaker and Taiwan president, vows 'resolute' response

United States House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Taiwanese President&nbsp;Tsai Ing-wen addressed the media at the&nbsp;Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California on Wednesday (April 6) following their meeting despite threats from China. Speaking to reporters, Taiwanese President Tsai said that a large bipartisan meeting of US politicians who met her showed that&nbsp;&nbsp;Taipei is "not isolated" in the face of Chinese anger.&nbsp;

"I want to thank Speaker McCarthy for his warm hospitality and for his invitation to bipartisan congressional leaders who have taken time out of their busy schedules to join us today," Tsai said. "Their presence and unwavering support reassure the people of Taiwan that we are not isolated and we are not alone," she added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foxconn-founder-announces-taiwan-presidential-run-bats-for-warm-relations-with-china-579495">Foxconn founder announces Taiwan presidential run, bats for warm relations with China</a>

The Taiwanese president's&nbsp;visit to California is a stop-over after a trip to Latin America to see two of&nbsp;Taipei's dwindling band of official diplomatic allies.

US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, meanwhile, said during the press conference that Taiwan is a successful democracy,&nbsp;with a thriving economy and a global leader in health and science. McCarthy said that the US cooperation with Taiwan continues to expand through dialogue and exchange.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The friendship between the people of&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;and America is a matter of profound importance to the free world, and it is critical to maintaining economic freedom peace and regional stability," McCarthy told reporters.&nbsp;

"We will honour our obligations and reiterate our commitment to our shared values behind which all Americans are united," the US House speaker added.&nbsp;

China,&nbsp;which considers Taiwan part of its territory and has vowed to bring it under its control, repeatedly warned against the meeting between McCarthy and Tsai. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-deploys-aircraft-carrier-group-off-taiwan-coast-ahead-of-tsais-meeting-with-us-house-speaker-579459">Ahead of the meeting</a>, Taiwan's defence ministry said&nbsp;that a Chinese aircraft carrier group had been deployed in the waters off the island's southeast coast, the news agency Reuters reported on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The ministry said the Chinese ships, led by the carrier the Shandong, passed through the Bashi Channel, adding they were&nbsp;going for training in the Western Pacific.&nbsp;

"The Chinese communists continue to send aircraft and ships to encroach in the seas and airspace around Taiwan.&nbsp;In addition to posing a substantial threat to our national security, it also destroys the status quo of regional security and stability. Such actions are by no means the acts of a responsible modern country," the ministry said.&nbsp;

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United States House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen addressed the media at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California on Wednesday (April 6) following their meeting despite threats from China.

United States House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen addressed the media at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California on Wednesday (April 6) following their meeting despite threats from China. Speaking to reporters, Taiwanese President Tsai said that a large bipartisan meeting of US politicians who met her showed that Taipei is "not isolated" in the face of Chinese anger. "I want to thank Speaker McCarthy for his warm hospitality and for his invitation to bipartisan congressional leaders who have taken time out of their busy schedules to join us today," Tsai said. "Their presence and unwavering support reassure the people of Taiwan that we are not isolated and we are not alone," she added. ALSO READ | Foxconn founder announces Taiwan presidential run, bats for warm relations with China The Taiwanese president's visit to California is a stop-over after a trip to Latin America to see two of Taipei's dwindling band of official diplomatic allies. US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, meanwhile, said during the press conference that Taiwan is a successful democracy, with a thriving economy and a global leader in health and science. McCarthy said that the US cooperation with Taiwan continues to expand through dialogue and exchange. "The friendship between the people of Taiwan and America is a matter of profound importance to the free world, and it is critical to maintaining economic freedom peace and regional stability," McCarthy told reporters. "We will honour our obligations and reiterate our commitment to our shared values behind which all Americans are united," the US House speaker added. China, which considers Taiwan part of its territory and has vowed to bring it under its control, repeatedly warned against the meeting between McCarthy and Tsai. Ahead of the meeting, Taiwan's defence ministry said that a Chinese aircraft carrier group had been deployed in the waters off the island's southeast coast, the news agency Reuters reported on Wednesday. The ministry said the Chinese ships, led by the carrier the Shandong, passed through the Bashi Channel, adding they were going for training in the Western Pacific. "The Chinese communists continue to send aircraft and ships to encroach in the seas and airspace around Taiwan. In addition to posing a substantial threat to our national security, it also destroys the status quo of regional security and stability. Such actions are by no means the acts of a responsible modern country," the ministry said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US support shows Taiwan is not isolated, not alone: Taiwanese prez Tsai

US House speaker Kevin McCarthy is all set to meet with the Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen in California today. Earlier China also warned McCarthy that it was playing with fire by meeting Tsai Ing-wen. "Before meeting McCarthy's I met with senior security officials and also discussed the regional situation," Taiwan's presidential office said. The president asked relevant units to continue to grasp the surrounding situation in real time and also keep her updated while she is overseas size visit to Southern California comes after trips to Guatemala and Belize and after a brief stop in New York last week as well.

China: Tsai Ing-wen, Kevin McCarthy meet will further damage ties with US

Kevin McCarthy and Tsai Ing-wen to meet, amid threats from China

Hours ahead of&nbsp;Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's&nbsp;supposed meeting with the US House speaker Kevin McCarthy - China has started making moves. The Taiwanese defence ministry on Wednesday informed that a Chinese aircraft carrier had been deployed in the waters off the island's southeast coast.&nbsp;

The ministry informed that the Chinese ships were led by carrier named the&nbsp;Shandong. The fleet passed through the&nbsp;Bashi Channel separating Taiwan from the Philippines and then into waters to Taiwan's southeast.

"The Chinese communists continue to send aircraft and ships to encroach in the seas and airspace around Taiwan. In addition to posing a substantial threat to our national security, it also destroys the status quo of regional security and stability. Such actions are by no means the acts of a responsible modern country," the ministry said in the statement.&nbsp;

Tsai is expected to meet McCarthy later in the day as she transits through Los Angeles on the way home from visits to two Central American diplomatic countries. The last time she met a US House speaker was eight months ago when Nancy Pelosi visited the island nation.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taiwanese-president-tsai-ing-wens-trip-to-central-america-has-worried-china-576917">WATCH |&nbsp;Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-Wen's trip to Central America has worried China</a>

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Immediately after the visit by the Democrat leader, the situation in the region deteriorated as China upped the ante by firing indiscriminate missiles and conducting one of the biggest military drills in the open waters.&nbsp;

Even during the first layover of Tsai's trip when she transited in New York, Beijing had issued statements condemning the move.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters in Beijing, China's Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Zhu Fenglian said Beijing will take 'measures' to fight back if the meet goes ahead.&nbsp;

"We firmly oppose this and will definitely take measures to resolutely fight back," said the spokesperson before adding, “The trip is not so much a ‘transit’, but an attempt to seek breakthroughs and propagate ‘Taiwan independence’."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwanese-president-arrives-in-new-york-greeted-by-supporters-and-protesters-alike-577297">ALSO READ |&nbsp;Taiwanese president arrives in New York, greeted by supporters and protesters alike</a>

Notably, the movement of the carrier comes at the same time when French President Emmanuel Macron is in Beijing. Meanwhile, Taiwan had said it will closely monitor the situation and will not yield to "external pressure".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Hours ahead of Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's supposed meeting with the US House speaker Kevin McCarthy - China has started making moves. The Taiwanese defence ministry on Wednesday informed that a Chinese aircraft carrier had been deployed in the waters off the island's southeast coast.

Hours ahead of Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's supposed meeting with the US House speaker Kevin McCarthy - China has started making moves. The Taiwanese defence ministry on Wednesday informed that a Chinese aircraft carrier had been deployed in the waters off the island's southeast coast. The ministry informed that the Chinese ships were led by carrier named the Shandong. The fleet passed through the Bashi Channel separating Taiwan from the Philippines and then into waters to Taiwan's southeast. "The Chinese communists continue to send aircraft and ships to encroach in the seas and airspace around Taiwan. In addition to posing a substantial threat to our national security, it also destroys the status quo of regional security and stability. Such actions are by no means the acts of a responsible modern country," the ministry said in the statement. Tsai is expected to meet McCarthy later in the day as she transits through Los Angeles on the way home from visits to two Central American diplomatic countries. The last time she met a US House speaker was eight months ago when Nancy Pelosi visited the island nation. WATCH | Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-Wen's trip to Central America has worried China Immediately after the visit by the Democrat leader, the situation in the region deteriorated as China upped the ante by firing indiscriminate missiles and conducting one of the biggest military drills in the open waters. Even during the first layover of Tsai's trip when she transited in New York, Beijing had issued statements condemning the move. Speaking to reporters in Beijing, China's Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Zhu Fenglian said Beijing will take 'measures' to fight back if the meet goes ahead. "We firmly oppose this and will definitely take measures to resolutely fight back," said the spokesperson before adding, “The trip is not so much a ‘transit’, but an attempt to seek breakthroughs and propagate ‘Taiwan independence’." ALSO READ | Taiwanese president arrives in New York, greeted by supporters and protesters alike Notably, the movement of the carrier comes at the same time when French President Emmanuel Macron is in Beijing. Meanwhile, Taiwan had said it will closely monitor the situation and will not yield to "external pressure". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China deploys aircraft carrier group off Taiwan coast ahead of Tsai's meeting with US House speaker

The US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has will meet Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen in California in California on Wednesday despite Beijing's warnings.

US House speaker McCarthy to meet Taiwan President Tsai in California

China on Tuesday promised that it will "firmly defend" its national sovereignty, ahead of the meeting between US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen in California this week.

"China will closely monitor the situation and firmly defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity," said foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning in a regular briefing.&nbsp;

"China is strongly opposed to the US arranging for Tsai Ing-wen to transit through its territory, and is strongly opposed to the meeting between House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, the third-ranking US official, and Tsai Ing-wen," said Mao.

"It seriously violates the One-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques, and seriously undermines China's sovereignty and territorial integrity," she added.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-speaker-mccarthy-to-host-taiwanese-president-on-wednesday-in-california-578769">US House Speaker McCarthy to host Taiwanese president on Wednesday in California</a>

China had earlier warned that the meeting between Tsai Ing-wen and McCarthy will "further damage" relations between Washington and Beijing.

The meeting to be held on Wednesday in California will "greatly hurt the national feelings of 1.4 billion Chinese people" and undermine "the political foundation of China-US relations," said a consulate spokesperson in a statement, adding that it would "further damage China-US relations."

"Speaker McCarthy is ignoring the broad support of the international community for the One-China principle, ignoring the lessons that should have been drawn from previous mistakes," said the consulate.

"There is no doubt that he will make the same mistake again, further damage China-US relations, but it will only strengthen the strong will and determination of the Chinese people" to achieve "reunification" with Taiwan, they added.

McCarthy, who is a Republican, had earlier confirmed that he will be holding talks with Tsai in California, defying China's warnings that he was "playing with fire”.

Tsai has planned to stop over in the US while returning from Central America, where she has met Guatemala's leaders and is travelling to Belize before meeting McCarthy.

McCarthy's office on Monday said that the "bipartisan" meeting will be held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, outside Los Angeles.

WATCH | China-Taiwan tensions continue; Beijing continues its military activities close to Taiwan

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Originally, the Republican had planned to follow the footsteps of his predecessor as a speaker, Democrat Nancy Pelosi, who had made a controversial visit to Taiwan in August.

In the wake of the visit, China had conducted its largest-ever military exercises around Taiwan, a self-governing democracy which Beijing claims as part of its territory.

Last week, China's embassy to the United States charge d'affaires Xu Xueyuan said that the US risked "serious confrontation" no matter if their government visit Taiwan or vice versa.

"The US keeps saying that transit is not a visit and that there are precedents, but we should not use past mistakes as excuses for repeating them today," she stated.

She appealed to Washington "not to repeat playing with fire on the Taiwan question," alluding to Pelosi's visit to Taiwan last year, among other things.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China on Tuesday promised that it will "firmly defend" its national sovereignty, ahead of the meeting between US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen in California this week.

China on Tuesday promised that it will "firmly defend" its national sovereignty, ahead of the meeting between US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen in California this week. "China will closely monitor the situation and firmly defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity," said foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning in a regular briefing. "China is strongly opposed to the US arranging for Tsai Ing-wen to transit through its territory, and is strongly opposed to the meeting between House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, the third-ranking US official, and Tsai Ing-wen," said Mao. "It seriously violates the One-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques, and seriously undermines China's sovereignty and territorial integrity," she added. ALSO READ | US House Speaker McCarthy to host Taiwanese president on Wednesday in California China had earlier warned that the meeting between Tsai Ing-wen and McCarthy will "further damage" relations between Washington and Beijing. The meeting to be held on Wednesday in California will "greatly hurt the national feelings of 1.4 billion Chinese people" and undermine "the political foundation of China-US relations," said a consulate spokesperson in a statement, adding that it would "further damage China-US relations." "Speaker McCarthy is ignoring the broad support of the international community for the One-China principle, ignoring the lessons that should have been drawn from previous mistakes," said the consulate. "There is no doubt that he will make the same mistake again, further damage China-US relations, but it will only strengthen the strong will and determination of the Chinese people" to achieve "reunification" with Taiwan, they added. McCarthy, who is a Republican, had earlier confirmed that he will be holding talks with Tsai in California, defying China's warnings that he was "playing with fire”. Tsai has planned to stop over in the US while returning from Central America, where she has met Guatemala's leaders and is travelling to Belize before meeting McCarthy. McCarthy's office on Monday said that the "bipartisan" meeting will be held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, outside Los Angeles. WATCH | China-Taiwan tensions continue; Beijing continues its military activities close to Taiwan Originally, the Republican had planned to follow the footsteps of his predecessor as a speaker, Democrat Nancy Pelosi, who had made a controversial visit to Taiwan in August. In the wake of the visit, China had conducted its largest-ever military exercises around Taiwan, a self-governing democracy which Beijing claims as part of its territory. Last week, China's embassy to the United States charge d'affaires Xu Xueyuan said that the US risked "serious confrontation" no matter if their government visit Taiwan or vice versa. "The US keeps saying that transit is not a visit and that there are precedents, but we should not use past mistakes as excuses for repeating them today," she stated. She appealed to Washington "not to repeat playing with fire on the Taiwan question," alluding to Pelosi's visit to Taiwan last year, among other things. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China vows to 'firmly defend national sovereignty' ahead of Tsai-McCarthy meet

United States House Speaker Kevin McCarthy will host Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen in California on Wednesday (April 5). President &nbsp;Tsai Ing-wen is on her first US stopover since 2019, though Taiwanese presidents have regularly made such trips. According to a statement from McCarthy's office, "On Wednesday, April 5th, Speaker Kevin McCarthy will be hosting a bipartisan meeting with the President of Taiwan at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library." This announcement is the official confirmation of what had been a widely anticipated meeting.

This will be the first between a Taiwanese leader and a US House of Representatives Speaker on American soil, although it is seen as a potentially less provocative alternative to McCarthy visiting Taiwan, something he has said he hopes to do, the news agency Reuters reported on Monday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-threatens-to-retaliate-if-us-house-speaker-meets-taiwan-president-washington-says-this-576877">China threatens to retaliate if US House Speaker meets Taiwan president; Washington says this</a>

Nearly a week back, China threatened to retaliate McCarthy met Tsai Ing-wen.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters in Beijing, China's Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Zhu Fenglian said on March 29 that Tsai's transits to the US were not just for her waiting at the airport or hotel, but for her to meet American officials and lawmakers.&nbsp;

Last year in August, Beijing held multi-day military drills around Taiwan in reaction to the visit of then-US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan.

The US remains Taiwan's most important ally -- and its biggest arms supplier -- despite switching its diplomatic recognition to Beijing in 1979. Local media reported on Monday that around 20 American lawmakers planned to accompany speaker McCarthy to the meeting in California.

Meanwhile, Taiwanese President Tsai met with members of Belize's House of Representatives and Prime Minister John Briceno in Belmopan. The two leaders are expected to reaffirm bilateral ties in the wake of Honduras cutting off diplomatic relations with Taiwan in late March to recognize China instead.

(With inputs from agencies)

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United States House Speaker Kevin McCarthy will host Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen in California on Wednesday (April 5). President Tsai Ing-wen is on her first US stopover since 2019, though Taiwanese presidents have regularly made such trips.

United States House Speaker Kevin McCarthy will host Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen in California on Wednesday (April 5). President Tsai Ing-wen is on her first US stopover since 2019, though Taiwanese presidents have regularly made such trips. According to a statement from McCarthy's office, "On Wednesday, April 5th, Speaker Kevin McCarthy will be hosting a bipartisan meeting with the President of Taiwan at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library." This announcement is the official confirmation of what had been a widely anticipated meeting. This will be the first between a Taiwanese leader and a US House of Representatives Speaker on American soil, although it is seen as a potentially less provocative alternative to McCarthy visiting Taiwan, something he has said he hopes to do, the news agency Reuters reported on Monday. ALSO READ | China threatens to retaliate if US House Speaker meets Taiwan president; Washington says this Nearly a week back, China threatened to retaliate McCarthy met Tsai Ing-wen. Speaking to reporters in Beijing, China's Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Zhu Fenglian said on March 29 that Tsai's transits to the US were not just for her waiting at the airport or hotel, but for her to meet American officials and lawmakers. Last year in August, Beijing held multi-day military drills around Taiwan in reaction to the visit of then-US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan. The US remains Taiwan's most important ally -- and its biggest arms supplier -- despite switching its diplomatic recognition to Beijing in 1979. Local media reported on Monday that around 20 American lawmakers planned to accompany speaker McCarthy to the meeting in California. Meanwhile, Taiwanese President Tsai met with members of Belize's House of Representatives and Prime Minister John Briceno in Belmopan. The two leaders are expected to reaffirm bilateral ties in the wake of Honduras cutting off diplomatic relations with Taiwan in late March to recognize China instead. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US House Speaker McCarthy to host Taiwanese president on Wednesday in California

China on Wednesday (March 29) threatened to retaliate if United States House Speaker Kevin McCarthy meets Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen during her planned transit of the US next month, by saying any such move would be a provocation.

China on Wednesday (March 29) threatened to retaliate if United States House Speaker Kevin McCarthy meets Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen during her planned transit of the US next month, by saying any such move would be a provocation. Taiwanese President Tsai is due to depart on Wednesday for a trip to Guatemala and Belize that will see her transit through New York and Los Angeles. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, while it is not officially confirmed, Tsai is expected to meet US House Speaker McCarthy in California, at the end of her trip. Speaking to reporters in Beijing, China's Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Zhu Fenglian said that Tsai's transits to the US were not just her waiting at the airport or hotel, but for her to meet American officials and lawmakers. ALSO READ | In big blow to Taiwan, decades-old ally Honduras establishes diplomatic ties with China Fenglian said that if Tsai has contact with McCarthy, it would be another provocation that seriously violates the one-China principle, harms China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and destroys peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. "We firmly oppose this and will definitely take measures to resolutely fight back," the spokesperson added. The Taiwanese president's transits come at a time when US relations with China are at their worst level since Washington normalised ties with Beijing in 1979 and switched diplomatic recognition from Taipei. And President Tsai's trip also comes after Honduras said that it was switching recognition to China. Only 13 countries, including Guatemala and Belize, officially recognise Taiwan over China. Beijing has repeatedly warned US officials not to meet Tsai, viewing it as support for Taiwan's desire to be seen as a separate country. In August last year, China staged war games around Taiwan when then-US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taipei. China should not 'overreact' to stopover: Washington A senior US official said early Wednesday that China should not "overreact" to Taiwanese President Tsai's stopover in the US, the news agency AFP reported. "There's absolutely no reason for China to use that as a pretext to overreact or to engage in further coercion directed at Taiwan," the official, who did not wish to be identified, told reporters. ALSO READ | 'We are all Chinese', says former Taiwan president while visiting China The official added that the US would carry out a transit that is fully consistent with that policy and decades' worth of practice. The official also pointed out that Beijing would not pressurise Washington "to alter our longstanding practice" on such visits. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China threatens to retaliate if US House Speaker meets Taiwan president; Washington says this

U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has vowed to get to the bottom of an ongoing probe into the classified documents. Some classified documents were found at the office and home of President Joe Biden. Watch further to know more.

Classified Doc Case: McCarthy vows to get to the bottom of probe

Republican Congressman Kevin McCarthy has been elected as speaker of the House of Representatives. It took 15 rounds of voting for McCarthy to secure the House’s gavel.

Republican leader Kevin McCarthy elected as US House Speaker

After four contentious days, 15 rounds of voting, and the fifth longest contest in history, the United States House of Representatives has finally chosen California Republican, Kevin McCarthy as the next speaker of the Congress as it convenes for its 118th session.&nbsp;

The 15th round vote took place between late Friday and early Saturday (January 7) after what can only be described as days of drama and a series of events on Capitol Hill as McCarthy scrambled to secure enough votes for the gavel following painstaking negotiations. The Republican lawmaker from California won after the longest election bid for the 435-member chamber speaker in 164 years.&nbsp;

McCarthy’s journey to the gavel

The deadlock began on January 3 when the Congress convened for the new session and the voting for the next House speaker, typically the first order of business, commenced. Notably, even weeks prior to the first round of voting, McCarthy’s bid to take the top post in the chamber was uncertain at best.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kevin-mccarthy-loses-14th-round-of-voting-us-house-still-without-speaker-550188">Kevin McCarthy finally elected House speaker after 15 rounds of voting spread across four days</a>

After the midterm elections, last year, the Republicans took over the House with a narrow majority of 222-213 from the Democrats and the outgoing speaker Nancy Pelosi. Subsequently, in the same month after a closed-door meeting of the GOP conference, McCarthy emerged as the leader of the House for his party. However, the members are not obligated to vote for the party’s chosen candidate.&nbsp;

In fact, while the person typically is a member of the House, it is not required. It opens the speaker's candidacy to a range of lawmakers including Senators, former president Donald Trump and incumbent president Joe Biden, though none of them has won a majority yet. Once the chamber had the minimum number of members present to proceed or quorum, the Democrats nominated their leader Hakeem Jeffries for the speaker while the Republicans nominated Kevin McCarthy.&nbsp;

What followed can only be described as chaos, as McCarthy scrambled to garner the majority, which is typically at least 218 votes. However, he was unable to do so, making it the first time in a century that the House did not elect its speaker after one round of voting. This successfully halted major functions in Washington as not only does the lawmaker preside over the lower chamber of Congress they would also be next in line for the presidency.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mccarthy-elected-house-speaker-after-15-votes-and-days-of-negotiations-550226">McCarthy elected House speaker after 15 votes and days of negotiations</a>

McCarthy’s bid for the speakership faced a range of hurdles but predominantly it was a small group of hardliners from his own party. While this situation is not necessarily unique it proved to be quite a roadblock for the California Republican since he was unable to secure a majority even after multiple rounds of voting.&nbsp;

What happened on late Friday and early Saturday?

Kevin McCarthy became the House speaker after 15 rounds of voting and tense negotiations for days with a small but critical group of lawmakers of the Republican party who demanded concessions that essentially resulted in diluting his power as the speaker. After the 14th round of voting the 57-year-old Californian lawmaker who seemed confident earlier faced humiliation after Representative Matt Gaetz withheld his vote.&nbsp;

In the 14th of voting, McCarthy managed to garner, 216 votes while the Democratic candidate for speaker Jeffries received 212. Meanwhile, Republican Andy Biggs received support from 2 representatives, as did Republican Jim Jordan. However, with six Republicans choosing another candidate and the other six withholding their vote McCarthy was one vote away from victory.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-adjourned-as-republican-speaker-nominee-kevin-mccarthy-loses-sixth-ballot-549530">US House adjourned as Republican speaker nominee Kevin McCarthy loses sixth ballot</a>

After an hour-long recess lawmakers returned for a 15th round of voting marking the first time in over a century and a half in US history. Subsequently, the decision was up to Florida lawmaker, Gaetz, who had initially walked out of the chamber when his name was first called during the 14th round and voted “present” for the 15th round.&nbsp;

However, Gaetz withheld his vote in the previous round which prompted a scuffle where a clip shows several lawmakers approaching the Florida representative on the House floor after McCarthy spoke to him and the situation escalated to a point where a Republican Mike Rogers had to be physically pulled away from nearly lunging at Gaetz.&nbsp;

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Amid a series of discussions and negotiations on the floor between Republican lawmakers on the House floor, Representative Andy Biggs (Arizona), Representative Elijah Crane (Arizona) and Representative Bob Good (Virginia) changed their votes to “present” ultimately lowering the threshold which McCarthy needed to win with the same amount of votes received. &nbsp;

Who was opposing him?

Here are the 20 Republican lawmakers that opposed McCarthy’s bid for the gavel as of Thursday, prior to the negotiations with the California Republican and his allies, after which some voted “present” and some switched their votes mostly around the 11th and 12th ballot conducted on Friday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-will-the-us-house-have-a-speaker-before-it-convenes-549146">Explained: Will the US House of Representatives have a speaker when it convenes?</a>

According to a report by CBS, the Republican lawmakers were, Andy Biggs (Arizona), Dan Bishop (North Carolina), Lauren Boebert (Colorado), Representative-elect Josh Brecheen (Oklahoma), Michael Cloud (Texas), Andrew Clyde (Georgia), Representative-elect Eli Crane (Arizona), Byron Donalds (Florida), Matt Gaetz (Florida), Bob Good (Virginia), Paul Gosar (Arizona), Andy Harris (Maryland), Representative-elect Anna Paulina Luna (Florida), Mary Miller (Illinois), Ralph Norman (South Carolina), Andy Ogles (Tennessee), Scott Perry (Pennsylvania), Matt Rosendale (Montana), Chip Roy (Texas), and Keith Self (Texas).&nbsp; 
 
What are some of the concessions made?

In a dramatic shift after several rounds of voting, McCarthy and his allies managed to flip at least a dozen votes before the 14th round of voting on Friday. According to a report by CNN, one of the most significant ones includes a provision that any member can call for a motion to vacate the speaker’s chair, which would make it easier to trigger what is essentially a no-confidence vote for the speaker.&nbsp;

Additionally, the report also spoke about provisions about pairing the efforts to raise the nation’s debt ceiling with spending cuts. This comes after Republicans have repeatedly shut down much of the government and pushed the world’s largest borrowers to the brink of default in efforts to extract steep spending cuts.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-house-logjam-day-4-of-voting-for-us-house-speaker-today-550101">US House Logjam: Day 4 of voting for US house speaker today</a>

However, they have not been able to do so as Democrats in the Senate and the White House have long opposed spending cuts. Another provision includes moving 12 appropriations bills individually rather than one “omnibus” year-end spending package which rolls everything into one bill which conservatives have railed against for a few years now as they believe it evades oversight, said a report by CNN.&nbsp;

McCarthy has also reportedly agreed to cap spending for the upcoming fiscal year at 2022’s levels which would amount to a significant cut in spending affecting defence and domestic programmes amid high inflation and population growth in the US. The incumbent speaker has agreed to restore the Holman rule, which could lead to salary cuts for government officials and also said that he would create an investigative committee to probe the “weaponization” of the federal government, said a report by CNN.&nbsp;

These concessions along with others effectively lower McCarthy’s power as the US House speaker which Senate Majority Leader and Democrat Chuck Schumer, warned would “will cause a government shutdown or a default with devastating consequences to our country.” In a statement after McCarthy’s win, Schummer said, “Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s dream job could turn into a nightmare for the American people…To get the votes, he surrendered to demands of a fringe element of the Republican party.”

What happened in the House after McCarthy won?

After the results were announced the Republican conference was seen clapping and hugging McCarthy as he passed them on the House floor who subsequently expressed relief and said, “I’m glad it’s over”. The Republican lawmaker received the gavel at 1:00 am (local time) and said, “I never thought we'd get up here.” The Republican lawmaker was then sworn into office along with other members of Congress marking the end of the weeks of deadlock.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-house-adjourns-without-electing-speaker-mccarthy-loses-3rd-us-house-speaker-vote-549229">US House adjourns without electing speaker; McCarthy loses 3rd US House speaker vote</a>

In his speech, he also spoke about holding the government accountable, “It's time for us to be a check and provide some balance to the president’s policies”, referring to the incumbent President Joe Biden and his administration. He added, “We commit to stop wasteful Washington spending, to lower the price of groceries, gas, cars, housing, and stop the rising national debt.”&nbsp;

“We'll also address America's long-term challenges, the debt and the rise of the Chinese communist party,” said McCarthy and went on to speak about China and how the new House of Representatives wants the US to win against Beijing in the economic competition.&nbsp;

&nbsp;“As for the Chinese communist party, we will create a bipartisan select committee on China to investigate how to bring back the hundreds of thousands of jobs that went to China, and then we will win this economic competition,” said the new House speaker. In his first speech after becoming the speaker, addressing his colleagues he said, “Now the hard work begins.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Leader of House Minority and Democrat Hakeem Jeffries made history by becoming the first black lawmaker to lead a party in Congress. The Democrat from New York will take over as former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is stepping down. He was selected by the Democratic caucus after the midterm elections in November. Notably, the 52-year-old is also the first leader of the House Democrats to be born after the end of World War II.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/who-is-hakeem-jeffries-the-first-black-lawmaker-nominee-for-house-speaker-know-everything-about-him-549423">Who is Hakeem Jeffries? The first black lawmaker nominee for house speaker, know everything about him</a> 
 
Addressing Jeffries, McCarthy said, “our debates will be passionate and they will never be personal.” On the other hand, the minority leader also delivered a speech about the Biden administration and Democratic Party’s accomplishments including the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act.&nbsp;

He also went on to acknowledge his predecessor and said, “Without question in my mind, Speaker Emerita Pelosi will go down in history as the greatest speaker of all time…Throughout her time in Congress, she's been a legendary legislator, a fabulous facilitator and a no-nonsense negotiator.” The House is now adjourned until 5:00 pm (local time) Monday.&nbsp; 
 
Biden and Trump congratulate the new House speaker&nbsp;

In a statement after the vote, the US president congratulated the new speaker and said, “Jill and I congratulate Kevin McCarthy on his election as Speaker of the House. As I said after the midterms, I am prepared to work with Republicans when I can and voters made clear that they expect Republicans to be prepared to work with me as well.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-announces-3-billion-in-aid-package-for-ukraine-including-bradley-armoured-vehicles-550147">US announces $3 billion in aid package for Ukraine, including Bradley armoured vehicles</a> 
 
Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump also took to his social media platform Truth social and said, “ The 'Speaker' selection process, as crazy as it may seem, has made it all much bigger and more important than if done the more conventional way.” He added, “Congratulations to Kevin McCarthy and our GREAT Republican Party!” reported CNN.&nbsp;

 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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After four contentious days, 15 rounds of voting, and the fifth longest contest in history, the United States House of Representatives has finally chosen California Republican, Kevin McCarthy as the next speaker of the Congress as it convenes for its 118th session.

After four contentious days, 15 rounds of voting, and the fifth longest contest in history, the United States House of Representatives has finally chosen California Republican, Kevin McCarthy as the next speaker of the Congress as it convenes for its 118th session. The 15th round vote took place between late Friday and early Saturday (January 7) after what can only be described as days of drama and a series of events on Capitol Hill as McCarthy scrambled to secure enough votes for the gavel following painstaking negotiations. The Republican lawmaker from California won after the longest election bid for the 435-member chamber speaker in 164 years. McCarthy’s journey to the gavel The deadlock began on January 3 when the Congress convened for the new session and the voting for the next House speaker, typically the first order of business, commenced. Notably, even weeks prior to the first round of voting, McCarthy’s bid to take the top post in the chamber was uncertain at best. ALSO READ | Kevin McCarthy finally elected House speaker after 15 rounds of voting spread across four days After the midterm elections, last year, the Republicans took over the House with a narrow majority of 222-213 from the Democrats and the outgoing speaker Nancy Pelosi. Subsequently, in the same month after a closed-door meeting of the GOP conference, McCarthy emerged as the leader of the House for his party. However, the members are not obligated to vote for the party’s chosen candidate. In fact, while the person typically is a member of the House, it is not required. It opens the speaker's candidacy to a range of lawmakers including Senators, former president Donald Trump and incumbent president Joe Biden, though none of them has won a majority yet. Once the chamber had the minimum number of members present to proceed or quorum, the Democrats nominated their leader Hakeem Jeffries for the speaker while the Republicans nominated Kevin McCarthy. What followed can only be described as chaos, as McCarthy scrambled to garner the majority, which is typically at least 218 votes. However, he was unable to do so, making it the first time in a century that the House did not elect its speaker after one round of voting. This successfully halted major functions in Washington as not only does the lawmaker preside over the lower chamber of Congress they would also be next in line for the presidency. ALSO WATCH | McCarthy elected House speaker after 15 votes and days of negotiations McCarthy’s bid for the speakership faced a range of hurdles but predominantly it was a small group of hardliners from his own party. While this situation is not necessarily unique it proved to be quite a roadblock for the California Republican since he was unable to secure a majority even after multiple rounds of voting. What happened on late Friday and early Saturday? Kevin McCarthy became the House speaker after 15 rounds of voting and tense negotiations for days with a small but critical group of lawmakers of the Republican party who demanded concessions that essentially resulted in diluting his power as the speaker. After the 14th round of voting the 57-year-old Californian lawmaker who seemed confident earlier faced humiliation after Representative Matt Gaetz withheld his vote. In the 14th of voting, McCarthy managed to garner, 216 votes while the Democratic candidate for speaker Jeffries received 212. Meanwhile, Republican Andy Biggs received support from 2 representatives, as did Republican Jim Jordan. However, with six Republicans choosing another candidate and the other six withholding their vote McCarthy was one vote away from victory. ALSO READ | US House adjourned as Republican speaker nominee Kevin McCarthy loses sixth ballot After an hour-long recess lawmakers returned for a 15th round of voting marking the first time in over a century and a half in US history. Subsequently, the decision was up to Florida lawmaker, Gaetz, who had initially walked out of the chamber when his name was first called during the 14th round and voted “present” for the 15th round. However, Gaetz withheld his vote in the previous round which prompted a scuffle where a clip shows several lawmakers approaching the Florida representative on the House floor after McCarthy spoke to him and the situation escalated to a point where a Republican Mike Rogers had to be physically pulled away from nearly lunging at Gaetz. Kevin McCarthy confronts Matt Gaetz during 14th House Speaker vote. #118thCongress pic.twitter.com/nMa9bm0KSN — CSPAN (@cspan) January 7, 2023 × Amid a series of discussions and negotiations on the floor between Republican lawmakers on the House floor, Representative Andy Biggs (Arizona), Representative Elijah Crane (Arizona) and Representative Bob Good (Virginia) changed their votes to “present” ultimately lowering the threshold which McCarthy needed to win with the same amount of votes received. Who was opposing him? Here are the 20 Republican lawmakers that opposed McCarthy’s bid for the gavel as of Thursday, prior to the negotiations with the California Republican and his allies, after which some voted “present” and some switched their votes mostly around the 11th and 12th ballot conducted on Friday. ALSO READ | Explained: Will the US House of Representatives have a speaker when it convenes? According to a report by CBS, the Republican lawmakers were, Andy Biggs (Arizona), Dan Bishop (North Carolina), Lauren Boebert (Colorado), Representative-elect Josh Brecheen (Oklahoma), Michael Cloud (Texas), Andrew Clyde (Georgia), Representative-elect Eli Crane (Arizona), Byron Donalds (Florida), Matt Gaetz (Florida), Bob Good (Virginia), Paul Gosar (Arizona), Andy Harris (Maryland), Representative-elect Anna Paulina Luna (Florida), Mary Miller (Illinois), Ralph Norman (South Carolina), Andy Ogles (Tennessee), Scott Perry (Pennsylvania), Matt Rosendale (Montana), Chip Roy (Texas), and Keith Self (Texas). What are some of the concessions made? In a dramatic shift after several rounds of voting, McCarthy and his allies managed to flip at least a dozen votes before the 14th round of voting on Friday. According to a report by CNN, one of the most significant ones includes a provision that any member can call for a motion to vacate the speaker’s chair, which would make it easier to trigger what is essentially a no-confidence vote for the speaker. Additionally, the report also spoke about provisions about pairing the efforts to raise the nation’s debt ceiling with spending cuts. This comes after Republicans have repeatedly shut down much of the government and pushed the world’s largest borrowers to the brink of default in efforts to extract steep spending cuts. ALSO WATCH | US House Logjam: Day 4 of voting for US house speaker today However, they have not been able to do so as Democrats in the Senate and the White House have long opposed spending cuts. Another provision includes moving 12 appropriations bills individually rather than one “omnibus” year-end spending package which rolls everything into one bill which conservatives have railed against for a few years now as they believe it evades oversight, said a report by CNN. McCarthy has also reportedly agreed to cap spending for the upcoming fiscal year at 2022’s levels which would amount to a significant cut in spending affecting defence and domestic programmes amid high inflation and population growth in the US. The incumbent speaker has agreed to restore the Holman rule, which could lead to salary cuts for government officials and also said that he would create an investigative committee to probe the “weaponization” of the federal government, said a report by CNN. These concessions along with others effectively lower McCarthy’s power as the US House speaker which Senate Majority Leader and Democrat Chuck Schumer, warned would “will cause a government shutdown or a default with devastating consequences to our country.” In a statement after McCarthy’s win, Schummer said, “Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s dream job could turn into a nightmare for the American people…To get the votes, he surrendered to demands of a fringe element of the Republican party.” What happened in the House after McCarthy won? After the results were announced the Republican conference was seen clapping and hugging McCarthy as he passed them on the House floor who subsequently expressed relief and said, “I’m glad it’s over”. The Republican lawmaker received the gavel at 1:00 am (local time) and said, “I never thought we'd get up here.” The Republican lawmaker was then sworn into office along with other members of Congress marking the end of the weeks of deadlock. ALSO WATCH | US House adjourns without electing speaker; McCarthy loses 3rd US House speaker vote In his speech, he also spoke about holding the government accountable, “It's time for us to be a check and provide some balance to the president’s policies”, referring to the incumbent President Joe Biden and his administration. He added, “We commit to stop wasteful Washington spending, to lower the price of groceries, gas, cars, housing, and stop the rising national debt.” “We'll also address America's long-term challenges, the debt and the rise of the Chinese communist party,” said McCarthy and went on to speak about China and how the new House of Representatives wants the US to win against Beijing in the economic competition. “As for the Chinese communist party, we will create a bipartisan select committee on China to investigate how to bring back the hundreds of thousands of jobs that went to China, and then we will win this economic competition,” said the new House speaker. In his first speech after becoming the speaker, addressing his colleagues he said, “Now the hard work begins.” Meanwhile, Leader of House Minority and Democrat Hakeem Jeffries made history by becoming the first black lawmaker to lead a party in Congress. The Democrat from New York will take over as former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is stepping down. He was selected by the Democratic caucus after the midterm elections in November. Notably, the 52-year-old is also the first leader of the House Democrats to be born after the end of World War II. ALSO READ | Who is Hakeem Jeffries? The first black lawmaker nominee for house speaker, know everything about him Addressing Jeffries, McCarthy said, “our debates will be passionate and they will never be personal.” On the other hand, the minority leader also delivered a speech about the Biden administration and Democratic Party’s accomplishments including the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act. He also went on to acknowledge his predecessor and said, “Without question in my mind, Speaker Emerita Pelosi will go down in history as the greatest speaker of all time…Throughout her time in Congress, she's been a legendary legislator, a fabulous facilitator and a no-nonsense negotiator.” The House is now adjourned until 5:00 pm (local time) Monday. Biden and Trump congratulate the new House speaker In a statement after the vote, the US president congratulated the new speaker and said, “Jill and I congratulate Kevin McCarthy on his election as Speaker of the House. As I said after the midterms, I am prepared to work with Republicans when I can and voters made clear that they expect Republicans to be prepared to work with me as well.” ALSO READ | US announces $3 billion in aid package for Ukraine, including Bradley armoured vehicles Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump also took to his social media platform Truth social and said, “ The 'Speaker' selection process, as crazy as it may seem, has made it all much bigger and more important than if done the more conventional way.” He added, “Congratulations to Kevin McCarthy and our GREAT Republican Party!” reported CNN. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kevin McCarthy becomes US House speaker after historic 15 rounds of voting: Here's what happened

"Elections belong to the people. It's their decision. If they decide to turn their back on the fire and burn their behinds, then they will just have to sit on their blisters," said Abraham Lincoln, 16th President of the United States.

Finally, the stalemate has ended after an agonising wait and lots of negotiations. The Republicans are elated, the US house was filled with roars of "USA, USA," Kevin McCarthy is the new House speaker who has survived brutal brawls for power.&nbsp;

It took 15 rounds of voting and the last race to go this long was the 1859 contest. Those were the turbulent years before the civil war.

In the present day, the wrangling has left the Grand Old Party battered &amp; the nation bruised. The unprecedented chaos in the four days of House voting brought the world's oldest democracy to a grinding halt. It also gives a glimpse of the tumultuous times ahead.

The Republicans control the house, but most of McCarthy's opposition is from his own party. They are ultra-conservative, hard-right lawmakers who boast themselves to be members of the House Freedom Caucus. About 30 Republican lawmakers of the caucus, 
are determined to drag the party further to the right, thereby deepening the chasm.

But for the man who is seizing the gavel and is second in line to the US presidency, the role could turn into a nightmare. And most of the heartburn is going to come from his own rank &amp; file because the caucus strongly rejects his leadership.

Speaking to Wion, Jon-Christopher Bua, US political analyst &amp; White House commentator says,"McCarthy has got a title but no power. He has succumbed to the very extreme right-wing who despise him. So, we are left with an unmanageable house."

In the end, the 57-year-old Californian emerges as a weakened speaker, one with less authority on paper than those before him. Speaking to Wion, Stephen Golub, author and political analyst said, "The drama reflects that Kevin McCarthy is going to be one of the most, if not the weakest speakers in the US history because his margin is so small, that he had to sell his soul to the very far-right Republicans."

McCarthy has shrugged off suggestions that the deal could weaken his power. But he was profuse in thanking one man, Donald Trump, who was sitting miles away from the scene of chaos but still managed to pull the strings. With his party having the majority, it should have been a low-hanging fruit. But his pleas for backing McCarthy seemingly fell on deaf ears. Trump's hold is seemingly shrinking &amp; his hopes of a re-run for the top job once again in 2024 look in complete disarray.

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"Elections belong to the people. It's their decision. If they decide to turn their back on the fire and burn their behinds, then they will just have to sit on their blisters," said Abraham Lincoln, 16th President of the United States.

"Elections belong to the people. It's their decision. If they decide to turn their back on the fire and burn their behinds, then they will just have to sit on their blisters," said Abraham Lincoln, 16th President of the United States. Finally, the stalemate has ended after an agonising wait and lots of negotiations. The Republicans are elated, the US house was filled with roars of "USA, USA," Kevin McCarthy is the new House speaker who has survived brutal brawls for power. It took 15 rounds of voting and the last race to go this long was the 1859 contest. Those were the turbulent years before the civil war. In the present day, the wrangling has left the Grand Old Party battered & the nation bruised. The unprecedented chaos in the four days of House voting brought the world's oldest democracy to a grinding halt. It also gives a glimpse of the tumultuous times ahead. The Republicans control the house, but most of McCarthy's opposition is from his own party. They are ultra-conservative, hard-right lawmakers who boast themselves to be members of the House Freedom Caucus. About 30 Republican lawmakers of the caucus, are determined to drag the party further to the right, thereby deepening the chasm. But for the man who is seizing the gavel and is second in line to the US presidency, the role could turn into a nightmare. And most of the heartburn is going to come from his own rank & file because the caucus strongly rejects his leadership. Speaking to Wion, Jon-Christopher Bua, US political analyst & White House commentator says,"McCarthy has got a title but no power. He has succumbed to the very extreme right-wing who despise him. So, we are left with an unmanageable house." In the end, the 57-year-old Californian emerges as a weakened speaker, one with less authority on paper than those before him. Speaking to Wion, Stephen Golub, author and political analyst said, "The drama reflects that Kevin McCarthy is going to be one of the most, if not the weakest speakers in the US history because his margin is so small, that he had to sell his soul to the very far-right Republicans." McCarthy has shrugged off suggestions that the deal could weaken his power. But he was profuse in thanking one man, Donald Trump, who was sitting miles away from the scene of chaos but still managed to pull the strings. With his party having the majority, it should have been a low-hanging fruit. But his pleas for backing McCarthy seemingly fell on deaf ears. Trump's hold is seemingly shrinking & his hopes of a re-run for the top job once again in 2024 look in complete disarray. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

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News Alert: Republican McCarthy loses 14th attempt to become U.S. House speaker

The newly-elected US House of representatives has again failed to elect their speaker after 13 rounds of voting in the last three days. While, Kevin McCarthy says he finally has the votes to be elected speaker of the house.

Kevin McCarthy loses 13th vote for House speaker

The US House of Representatives was adjourned till 2200 hours ET (0300 GMT) after a failed 13th ballot to elect the next speaker.&nbsp;

While Republican speaker nominee Kevin McCarthy failed to gain the desired votes to become the speaker, he managed to make substantial headways, after three days of monotony.&nbsp;

On Friday afternoon, during the 12th and 13th ballots, McCarthy managed to flip 14 GOP lawmakers cumulatively who had previously not voted for him. McCarthy managed to have 214 votes in his favour while Democrat nominee Hakeem Jeffries had 212.&nbsp;

With two Republican leaders expected to not play any further part in the House proceedings due to personal reasons, the magical figure for McCarthy lies at 216, instead of the previous 218.&nbsp;House Speaker Nancy Pelosi was elected with the same number of votes in 2021.&nbsp;

Media reports suggest that McCarthy's team engaged in overnight negotiations with the rebels and even held a conference call in the morning to make the gains.&nbsp;

However, Matt Gaetz,&nbsp;Andy Biggs, Bob Good, Lauren Boebert and Matt Rosendale remain the five Republican leaders, adamant about not voting McCarthy into power. Notably, Mccarthy, the House minority leader can only afford four Republicans to vote against him.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-house-logjam-day-4-of-voting-for-us-house-speaker-today-550101">WATCH |&nbsp;US House Logjam: Day 4 of voting for US house speaker today</a>

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After being rather dormant throughout the proceedings, McCarthy finally had an air of confidence about him as he suggested that the lawmakers will get the job done tonight.&nbsp;

"We’ll come back tonight. I believe at that time we’ll have the votes to finish this once and for all," said McCarthy.&nbsp;

"It just reminds me of what my father always told me. It’s not how you start. It’s how you finish. And now we have to finish for the American public."

Though McCarthy sounded optimistic, he had to make numerous concessions to the holdouts, according to several reports. McCarthy has reportedly accepted to bring back the rule that allows any member to bring the 'motion to vacate' which will trigger a vote on removing the speaker.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-speaker-contest-enters-11th-ballot-breaks-a-164-year-record-549879">Read more:&nbsp;US House adjourned: McCarthy loses 11th ballot in the longest speaker contest in 164 years</a>

Other concessions include expanding the number of seats in the powerful House Rules Committee and attempting to bring a constitutional amendment that will impose term limits on members of the House and Senate.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The US House of Representatives was adjourned till 2200 hours ET (0300 GMT) after a failed 13th ballot to elect the next speaker. While Republican speaker nominee Kevin McCarthy failed to gain the desired votes to become the speaker, he managed to make substantial headways, after three days of monotony.

The US House of Representatives was adjourned till 2200 hours ET (0300 GMT) after a failed 13th ballot to elect the next speaker. While Republican speaker nominee Kevin McCarthy failed to gain the desired votes to become the speaker, he managed to make substantial headways, after three days of monotony. On Friday afternoon, during the 12th and 13th ballots, McCarthy managed to flip 14 GOP lawmakers cumulatively who had previously not voted for him. McCarthy managed to have 214 votes in his favour while Democrat nominee Hakeem Jeffries had 212. With two Republican leaders expected to not play any further part in the House proceedings due to personal reasons, the magical figure for McCarthy lies at 216, instead of the previous 218. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi was elected with the same number of votes in 2021. Media reports suggest that McCarthy's team engaged in overnight negotiations with the rebels and even held a conference call in the morning to make the gains. However, Matt Gaetz, Andy Biggs, Bob Good, Lauren Boebert and Matt Rosendale remain the five Republican leaders, adamant about not voting McCarthy into power. Notably, Mccarthy, the House minority leader can only afford four Republicans to vote against him. WATCH | US House Logjam: Day 4 of voting for US house speaker today × After being rather dormant throughout the proceedings, McCarthy finally had an air of confidence about him as he suggested that the lawmakers will get the job done tonight. "We’ll come back tonight. I believe at that time we’ll have the votes to finish this once and for all," said McCarthy. "It just reminds me of what my father always told me. It’s not how you start. It’s how you finish. And now we have to finish for the American public." Though McCarthy sounded optimistic, he had to make numerous concessions to the holdouts, according to several reports. McCarthy has reportedly accepted to bring back the rule that allows any member to bring the 'motion to vacate' which will trigger a vote on removing the speaker. Read more: US House adjourned: McCarthy loses 11th ballot in the longest speaker contest in 164 years Other concessions include expanding the number of seats in the powerful House Rules Committee and attempting to bring a constitutional amendment that will impose term limits on members of the House and Senate. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Kevin McCarthy claims he'll win the speaker vote as the House is adjourned ahead of 14th ballot

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