The Democrats screwed up the Speaker vote in classic Pelosi fashion
PATRIOTS IN CONTROL
They should've let McCarthy win in the first round or two. They should've let enough votes to slide over to McCarthy in order to (1) send the (dishonest) signal that they are collaborative, (2) try to get a favor or two in return, and (3) keep the Freedom Caucus from getting representation on committees and rules changes that together will make it impossible for the Dems to get anything done in the House for two years.
Once again, the Dems crapped all over an opportunity. What morons.
I disagree with the premise. I think that this was a considered political calculation. First, they fed and deepened the rift in the Republican party. Second, they laid the groundwork for fractures leading to dysfunction. Doesn't matter if we agree with the outcome or label warfare (eg "RINOs" vs "Patriots") or if we long for gridlock so nothing can be further screwed up, The Dems have set up the Reps for a theme of incompetence and will be well and loudly abetted by the MSM. the2024 campaign season has already begun.