Embittered Republicans plot to knock off House GOP’s hard-right leader in Virginia primary feud

Rep. Derrick Van Orden's Criticism of Rep. Bob Good

Rep. Derrick Van Orden, a Wisconsin Republican, has expressed his dissatisfaction with Rep. Bob Good, the leader of the House Freedom Caucus. Good, who was one of eight Republicans to vote against Kevin McCarthy's speakership, has been involved in internal GOP infighting that has caused division within the party [[1]].

Van Orden has joined a group of House Republicans aiming to remove Good in the June primary by supporting his opponent, John McGuire. This tactic is seen as a breach of protocol but highlights the deep divisions within the House GOP. Van Orden criticized Good, stating that he believes Good is more interested in fame than governing and that he is not a team player [[1]].

Van Orden also attributed the lack of accomplishments in Congress to Good and his allies, suggesting that their actions have hindered progress [[1]].

In response, Good dismissed Van Orden's criticism, stating that voters in his district do not care about Van Orden's opinion. Good accused his Republican colleagues in Washington of casting votes that harm the country and undermine conservative values. He emphasized that his constituents are more concerned with conservative warriors who endorse him rather than Van Orden [[1]].

The Larger Battle within the House GOP

The infighting between Good and Van Orden is part of a larger battle over the direction of the GOP. While some Republicans in Washington advocate for compromise and consensus with Democrats, Good and his group of members reject such deal-making and advocate for a no-compromise approach [[1]].

Rep. Matt Gaetz, who led the charge to oust McCarthy and has targeted other sitting Republicans in their primaries, described the primary between Good and McGuire as the most important in the country. Gaetz sees Good as a leader among House conservatives and believes that their approach prioritizes the interests of the people over special interests [[1]].

McGuire's Perspective and Support

John McGuire, a former Navy SEAL and Good's primary opponent, criticized Good's conduct as "embarrassing" and accused him of name-calling fellow Republicans. McGuire believes that the party needs leaders who want to grow the party and unite the country, rather than tearing it apart. He questioned Good's loyalty to the Republican team if he is helping Democrats take out fellow Republicans [[1]].

McGuire has gained support from various Republicans, including allies of McCarthy and a new GOP outside group. House Armed Services Chairman Mike Rogers called Good a "danger to our country" at a private fundraiser for McGuire. McGuire also highlighted his efforts to support President Trump during the Iowa caucuses, contrasting it with Good's endorsement of Ron DeSantis. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, who endorsed McGuire, accused Good of being untrustworthy and working against Trump [[1]].

Good's Response to Trump and Endorsements

One of the challenges facing Good is his relationship with former President Donald Trump. While Good initially supported Ron DeSantis during the GOP presidential primary, he has shown no daylight with Trump during his campaign. Good campaigned with Trump's former chief of staff, Mark Meadows, and emphasized the need to rally behind President Trump. He dismissed questions about his previous endorsement of DeSantis, stating that it is time to focus on supporting Trump and that the country cannot handle four more years of Joe Biden [[1]].

Trump has not yet endorsed anyone in the race, but some of his allies who support Good are working to ensure that Trump does not undermine Good's bid. They believe that having Good in Congress will best execute Trump's agenda and that a united Republican Party will be there for the former president [[1]].

In conclusion, the ongoing conflict between Rep. Bob Good and Rep. Derrick Van Orden reflects the larger battle within the House GOP over the party's direction. Good's primary opponent, John McGuire, has gained support from various Republicans who believe that Good's conduct is detrimental to the party and the country. The relationship between Good and former President Trump is also a significant factor in the race.