Rep. Derrick Van Orden has officially declared war on Rep. Bob Good, the leader of the House Freedom Caucus, in a bitter battle that has engulfed the House GOP. Van Orden, along with a group of House Republicans, is backing John McGuire to challenge Good in the upcoming primary election in June.
Van Orden accused Good of prioritizing fame over governance, stating that Good is not a team player and has hindered the party’s progress in Congress. Good, on the other hand, remains defiant, brushing off criticism from his colleagues and focusing on his constituents’ support.
The infighting within the House GOP reflects a larger struggle over the party’s direction, with some members advocating for compromise with Democrats while others, like Good, push for a no-compromise approach. The battle has now reached Good’s conservative district in rural Virginia, where allies of McCarthy and a new GOP outside group are also targeting him.
The Trump factor looms large in the primary race, with Good facing criticism for initially backing Ron DeSantis over Trump in the presidential primary. Despite this, Good has aligned himself closely with Trump, campaigning with his former chief of staff, Mark Meadows, and emphasizing their shared goals.
As the primary election heats up, McGuire and his supporters are positioning themselves as the true conservatives who will support Trump’s agenda. With endorsements from key figures like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and former Trump Cabinet member Ryan Zinke, McGuire is presenting himself as a trustworthy ally to the former president.
The battle between Good and McGuire is shaping up to be a crucial test of the GOP’s direction, with implications for the party’s future and its relationship with Trump. The outcome of this primary race could have far-reaching consequences for the House GOP and its ability to unite behind a common agenda.