We are in one of our biggest battles ever for this nation and the direction whether

this next century will be ours.

Republicans only need a handful of seats to win control of the U.S. House of Representatives

in 2022, and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy is determined to make that happen.

But McCarthy has to tow a really tricky line, as he tries to secure the House for the

U.S. House of Representatives in 2022, and secure a likely speakership for himself.

He has to convince donors and some members of the party that he can stand up to an unpredictable

former President Trump.

And he has to do that.

Without breaking the delicate bond he's built with the man who still holds such power

over the Republican Party.

McCarthy believes that he, uniquely, can strike that ideal balance and deliver election

wins to the GOP in the next two cycles.

So, Kenny.

This is Kenny Do That, a podcast that explores the powers and limitations of American government

in a time of deep division.

I'm Alison Michaels.

Washington Post Politics Reporter Michael Scherer recently co-wrote with reporter Josh Dossie,

a story looking at McCarthy's political aspirations and his motivations.

I got to the heart of my questions for Michael first.

McCarthy claims that he can restore the Republican Party's power in Washington, and that he

can do that without destroying his relationship with Trump or with donors.

...