Nashville, Tennessee – Tennessee Rep. Tim Burchett claimed that House GOP leader Kevin McCarthy elbowed him in the back after a meeting on Tuesday. McCarthy denied the allegations, stating that he did not elbow Burchett. The incident occurred after Burchett voted to oust McCarthy from the speakership last month. An NPR reporter who witnessed part of the altercation confirmed McCarthy’s denial of the incident.

According to Burchett, he was speaking to the NPR reporter when McCarthy intentionally put his elbow into his back, causing Burchett to confront the former speaker. Burchett followed McCarthy down the hallway and questioned him about the incident, to which McCarthy responded by denying the action. Burchett, in turn, accused McCarthy of lacking the courage to admit to the altercation.

The altercation between Burchett and McCarthy is a developing story, and as more information becomes available, updates will be provided. These allegations of physical confrontation between lawmakers highlight the tensions within the Republican Party, especially following McCarthy’s removal as speaker of the House. It remains to be seen how this incident will impact the relationships between the two lawmakers and their colleagues.

The claims made by Burchett regarding McCarthy’s alleged elbowing serve as another example of the divisions within the Republican Party. This incident underscores the challenges faced by the GOP in maintaining a united front and fostering constructive relationships among its members. As the situation continues to unfold, it will be essential to monitor the developments and responses from both Burchett and McCarthy.