California Republican and congressman Kevin McCarthy finally became the Speaker of the House of Representatives on the 15th ballot. A contingent of right-wing lawmakers had been stubbornly holding out and prevented him from reaching the coveted 217 votes.

Of course, 217 means the math is quite challenging since there are 218 Republicans in the House with many of them mavericks who have cultivated independent brands like Matt Gaetz and Lauren Boebert. Additionally, the demands and attention generated by these representatives is resulting in a massive fundraising haul and support from the grassroots which is likely to continue rewarding such obstinance.

In essence, it's a problem that has beguiled the Republicans and even Democrats, to some extent, for more than a decade. Behavior, actions, and rhetoric that are rewarded by the base are repelled by the public and anathema to bipartisanship which is essential for making Washington D.C. work.

Still, it's a bigger-picture issue that could rear its head anytime a contentious issue emerges and a sharp contrast to Nancy Pelosi who was very successful in keeping her coalition together. And, it's also quite likely that McCarthy granted concessions to these intransigent members. And, he has to walk a tightrope of not alienating the moderate members of his coalition who have dutifully supported him.

In the latest ballot, McCarthy increased his vote count by 14, including some who had been publicly opposed including Chip Roy, Ralph Norman, Scott Perry, and Paul Gosar. There's also increasing chatter that another candidate may emerge who would be more amenable to conservatives such as Louisiana's Steve Scalise.

One sticking point is to increase the number of committee assignments for House Freedom Caucus members. Another is that with 217 votes needed to maintain his role as Speakership, McCarthy's job security becomes tenuous if any member is dissatisfied. Therefore, he has been looking to increase the threshold by which a 'no confidence' vote can be called. Other issues are defense spending and choosing who will chair committees, a job that comes with significant power and prestige.

Although nothing has been confirmed, some of McCarthy's concessions are rumored to be increasing the number of House Freedom Caucus members on the House Rules Committee and firm plans to offer legislation on term limits for representatives and a comprehensive border security plan.

This is the definition of a bittersweet victory as McCarthy achieved his goal but in the process, revealed that his coalition is divided and undermined his power. While Pelosi was feared by House members, McCarthy has to fear every one of his 217 peers.