I’ve thought natural forces of political gravity would work against McCarthy, but despite some fraying, he kept his side on board over the course of the last few days, and now, after finalizing a deal, he’s had a breakthrough that puts him on the cusp of victory. The math is a little tricky, what with a few absences. But he’s now in the position he hoped to be in earlier in the week — with a handful of Republicans opposing him and only needing to peel off a couple. At the very least, he’s bought himself much more time.
If McCarthy pulls this off, it will be quite the show of political endurance.