Some pundits have speculated that audio of that conversation could permanently damage McCarthy’s relationship with Trump. But according to reporting in the Washington Post, some people in Trump World believe that the leaked audio is advantageous for Trump in that it gives him “leverage” over McCarthy. But Dawsey, Scherer and DeBonis report that during a closed-door meeting of House Republicans on Wednesday, April 27, more of them than not rallied to McCarthy’s defense. He obviously realizes how badly McCarthy wants to be House speaker — assuming Republicans have a House majority in 2023 — and views McCarthy as someone who is willing to do his bidding. “Most Republicans, fearing the former president may oppose their reelection, have made a similar bet, and therefore, have to maintain good ties with Trump.

Source: Washington Post April 28, 2022 17:47 UTC