Matt Gaetz wins primary against McCarthy-backed challenger, AP projects

• Groups linked with McCarthy spent millions on ads taking aim at the Florida incumbent.

The intrigue: Gaetz and McCarthy have long had a contentious relationship that has extended beyond McCarthy leaving Congress, with the two frequently going after one another during media appearances and on social media.

• McCarthy has alleged that Gaetz only moved to oust him because of an ongoing ethics investigation into his conduct. Gaetz has denied McCarthy's claim.
• The two got into a public spat during the Republican National Convention, with Gaetz taunting the California Republican that he would be "booed off the stage" if he had been given a speaking role.
• McCarthy in turn doubled down on accusations of wrongdoing, telling CNN: "People have concerns about him, and I'm not sure if he's on something, but I do hope he gets the help that he needs. But more importantly, I hope that young women get the justice they deserve when it comes to him."

The big picture: McCarthy's push to extract revenge via primaries has largely been unsuccessful, with just one — House Freedom Caucus Chair Bob Good (R-Va.) — losing his race.

• Former President Trump endorsing against Good over his support of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in the presidential primary.
• Florida's 1st Congressional District has been a Republican stronghold and is expected to remain in GOP hands in November.