AP Photo McCarthy formally announces he's running for speaker

House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy officially announced his bid for House speaker on Monday, promising to "lead the fight" for conservatism while healing divisions in the conference.

McCarthy's (R-Calif.) candidacy is no secret. The 50-year old has been calling lawmakers for days, asking for their support. He is positioning himself as both a fighter and healer — and someone who wants to bring Washington closer to the American people.


"I want us to be much closer to the people we represent, and I want them to once again feel like this is their government, they are in charge, and we are here to serve them," McCarthy said in an email to GOP lawmakers.

McCarthy is all but certain to win the speakership. His only challenger is Rep. Daniel Webster (R-Fla.), whose district might be eliminated by the 2016 election.

McCarthy's strength is his relationship with his colleagues, and he sought to remind lawmakers of that as he launched his bid.

"You all know me," McCarthy said. "We’ve spent late nights on the House Floor together. I’ve visited your districts and met your families and constituents. More importantly, I have gotten to know your ideas, your goals, and your vision for our conference and our country."

McCarthy's bid comes after current speaker John Boehner stunned colleagues on Friday with his announcement that he'll resign at the end of October.