• Rep.-elect Kevin McCarthy gave in to demands by a contingent of hardline conservative Republicans blocking his bid to become House speaker as the chamber prepares for a third day of voting, according to multiple reports.
• But McCarthy’s acquiescence is also turning out to be controversial, with some Republicans saying the changes will empower individual lawmakers — while others fear they will hinder the GOP’s ability to govern and render their narrow majority toothless.
• The California Republican, who has already lost six speaker votes over the last two days, agreed to the compromises during negotiations late Wednesday after the House adjourned to block a seventh ballot.

Tagged: Capitol Hill