In a blistering farewell address on the House floor, outgoing Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) tore into his own party's leadership, arguing that Republicans lost the midterms because they chased political power instead of serving the people. Roy, whose term ends Jan. 3 after an unsuccessful bid for Texas attorney general, delivered nearly 30 minutes of unvarnished criticism that seemed aimed at the GOP's recent strategy and priorities.
“It pisses me off,” Roy said, his voice carrying a mix of frustration and defiance. “The arrogance of the powers that be, the masters of the universe who tell you that that's what you have to do. And when you pursue political power over the people, you lose, and that's what happened.” Roy's comments come after Republicans failed to hold onto majorities in both the House and Senate, a result that has sparked internal finger-pointing across the party.
Roy, a staunch conservative who has often clashed with leadership, singled out the party's decision to back Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in the GOP primary against incumbent Sen. John Cornyn. Paxton, who faced impeachment and acquittal over allegations of favors for donors, lost the general election to Democrat James Talarico. “Somebody tell me why Republicans lost last Tuesday,” Roy said, referencing Paxton's race. “I'll say it's because they were focused on themselves and the ruling class and not the people. The founders gave us a system that does put the people first, and when politicians forget that, they rightly get sent home.”
Roy's critique extends beyond the Paxton episode. He argued that the party's broader obsession with consolidating power—rather than advancing a clear, people-centered agenda—alienated voters. He warned Democrats not to overinterpret their victories, noting that public trust in both parties remains fragile. “The people right now are not in love with either party,” Roy said. “Democrats who right now think they're all fired up that they're on some sort of wave, no sir. Republicans who think they've got all the answers, 'Oh, if we'd have just not done Iran, man, we were just sailing along.' No. It's the people who are tired of seeing corporate crony government interests steamroll their way of life, steamroll their community.”
As the lame-duck session winds down, Roy has urged Congress to stay in session until Jan. 3 to push through remaining legislative priorities. He specifically called for action on a ban on congressional stock trading, border security measures, and a reconciliation package—items he says voters sent lawmakers to Washington to address. “These are the things that people sent us here to do and more, again all designed to try to preserve and protect our great country, to actually secure it,” Roy said.
Roy's speech reflects a broader tension within the GOP as it grapples with its electoral setbacks. Some Republicans, like Roy, are pushing for a return to core principles and legislative achievements, while others are already looking toward the next election cycle. His pointed remarks on Paxton's candidacy—backed by former President Donald Trump, who remains a dominant force in the party—highlight the ongoing struggle between establishment and populist wings.
Political analysts note that Roy's critique, while sharp, may not shift the party's direction overnight. But his willingness to voice such frustrations publicly underscores the depth of dissatisfaction among some conservatives. As the GOP charts its path forward, the debate over whether to prioritize power or policy is unlikely to fade quickly.
For now, Roy's farewell serves as a stark reminder of the consequences when parties lose sight of their constituents. His call for a focus on legislative action before the power shift may resonate with voters who feel left behind by both parties.
