Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy faced widespread criticism on social media after commenting on sexual assault allegations involving Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner during a Fox News appearance.

McCarthy argued that Republicans do not support candidates once they learn of serious misconduct, citing former Representative Matt Gaetz as an example.

He referenced Gaetz's failed nomination for attorney general under President Donald Trump, noting that Republicans ultimately did not confirm him for the position.

Critics quickly challenged McCarthy's statement, arguing that it ignored the Republican Party's continued support for Trump despite numerous allegations of sexual misconduct against him.They also pointed to the civil case in which Trump was found liable for the sexual abuse of writer E.Jean Carroll, a verdict the U.S.

Supreme Court recently declined to overturn, as well as the fact that more than two dozen women have accused Trump of sexual misconduct or assault over several decades.Trump has consistently denied those allegations.

Many commenters additionally referenced Trump's conviction on 34 felony counts related to falsifying business records connected to hush money payments to Stormy Daniels.

Public figures, journalists, and political commentators accused McCarthy of hypocrisy, arguing that Republicans have continued to support Trump and other controversial candidates while criticizing Democrats over allegations involving Platner.

The article primarily highlights the wave of online reactions, featuring numerous social media posts expressing disbelief, frustration, and accusations of double standards in how political parties respond to allegations of misconduct involving their candidates.