In a shocking incident at the US Capitol, Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee and former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy of California engaged in a physical confrontation witnessed by NPR reporter Claudia Grisales. The altercation occurred after the GOP conference meeting, where McCarthy reportedly shoved Burchett. Grisales, who was interviewing Burchett at the time, described the incident as something she had never witnessed before on Capitol Hill.

According to Burchett, McCarthy took a "cheap shot from behind" and deliberately elbowed him in the kidneys as he walked by. Burchett, one of the eight Republicans who voted against McCarthy's role as House Speaker, expressed his surprise and disappointment at McCarthy's behavior, stating that such actions were not expected from an adult, especially one who was once third in line for the White House.

Burchett claimed that McCarthy's actions seemed deliberate and compared him to a bully. He even challenged McCarthy to take a polygraph test to prove his innocence. However, Burchett stated that he did not plan on taking further action against McCarthy, including filing a House ethics complaint, as McCarthy would likely "cash in" after Christmas and leave his position with a substantial amount of money and a security detail.

When asked about the incident's implications for Congress, Burchett responded that it reflected the nature of human behavior and that such incidents were not uncommon in the past, including duels and fistfights. He emphasized that the incident was not significant and portrayed a difference in how people from Tennessee and California handle conflicts, suggesting that in Tennessee, problems are resolved face to face.

Grisales, the NPR reporter, recounted the incident on social media, describing how McCarthy shoved Burchett while she was conducting an interview with him in the Capitol hallway. Burchett revealed that he chased after McCarthy following the altercation. Despite being asked if he was hurt, Burchett downplayed the situation, stating that it was merely a reflection of the cultural differences between Tennessee and California.

Burchett also accused McCarthy of using his significant wealth, reportedly $17 million, to interfere in other politicians' races. The news outlet reached out to McCarthy's office for comment, but there has been no response thus far.

The incident has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about the state of Congress and the behavior of its members. It serves as a reminder of the tensions and divisions within the Republican Party, with McCarthy's removal as House Speaker being a contentious issue. The incident has brought attention to the need for civility and respect among lawmakers, regardless of political differences.