GOP action on Cheney 'disturbing' -White House

House of Representatives Republicans on Wednesday ejected Liz Cheney from their leadership ranks as punishment for repudiating former U.S. President Donald Trump's false claims of a stolen election, but she remained defiant and made plans to seek re-election to Congress.

Her ouster from her party's No. 3 post in the Democratic-led House unfolded in mere minutes in a closed-door meeting. The action signaled that Trump, despite losing to Democrat Joe Biden in November, has solidified his hold over House Republicans as he jockeys to play a major role in the 2022 congressional elections and flirts with running for president again in 2024.

Cheney's critics said her criticism of Trump's false claims distracted from party messaging opposing Democrats and Biden's agenda. Cheney rejected House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy's contention that Republicans must refrain from criticizing Trump to win back control of Congress in 2022.

"It's disturbing to see any leader, regardless of party, being attacked for simply speaking the truth," Psaki told reporters on Wednesday.