Sen. McConnell Criticized By Primary Challenger Over Debt Ceiling Vote

Challenger Matt Bevin says McConnell caved to the left

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell is facing the wrath of Tea Party conservatives – and particularly his top primary challenger – after he helped pull a controversial debt-ceiling bill over the finish line on Wednesday.

The Kentucky Republican did not vote for the bill in the final roll call. However, he did vote with several other senior Republicans to clear a filibuster hurdle after it became apparent the measure was in danger of failing. That move allowed the bill – which raises the debt ceiling with no strings attached -- to get a final vote.

Matt Bevin, the Republican businessman challenging McConnell in the primary this year, seized on McConnell's role.