McCarthy defeated in 14th vote for Speaker's gavel

BBC Summary

Republican Kevin McCarthy loses the 14th vote in the House of Representatives to pick a Speaker.

Follow the proceedings inside the Capitol live by clicking the play button, reports BBC.

Of the six diehard rebels, four voted for alternative candidates, and two switched their votes to 'present'.

There was a tense exchange between McCarthy, his deputy chief of staff and key rebel Matt Gaetz on the House floor after the latest round.

"I'll have the votes," McCarthy said earlier as he left the chamber after losing the 13th round.

The stalemate means some of the key functions of the House, like forming committees and swearing in new members, are on hold.

The Speaker sets the House agenda and oversees legislative business.

The post is second in line to the presidency after the US vice-president.