Description

The U.S. faced many changes in 2024 while continuing to evolve on the global stage. In light of this, the Los Angeles World Affairs Council held a luncheon and discussion with former Speaker of the House, Kevin McCarthy, on U.S. competition with China. This program also featured a conversation moderated by former Entertainment Tonight host Mary Hart.

View the photos from this event HERE.

Speaker: Former Speaker of the House, Kevin McCarthy

55th Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy is described as a man exuding “true American grit.” Prior to his election to Congress, McCarthy served as the fastest rising Minority Leader in the California State Legislature. In Congress, he held nearly every elected leadership position in the House Republican conference and served under four Presidents, during two economic crises, and through consistent political upheaval while always maintaining his approach to governing as a Happy Warrior. After his election to Speaker, McCarthy went on to secure $2T in deficit reduction. McCarthy’s decade and a half at the pinnacle of U.S. government has imbued him with powerful insights into politics, leadership, and values. Throughout his career, McCarthy fought for a more effective, efficient, and accountable federal government. McCarthy’s invaluable perspective as a Washington insider, as well as his sharp insights and analysis, make him the ideal voice on the future of the U.S.

Moderator: Mary Hart 

Mary Hart, is best known for hosting “Entertainment Tonight” for nearly 30 years. Her reporting for the show included interviewing nearly every major motion picture, television and music star of the last 30 years. Mary was inducted into the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame in 1999. She has been honored by American Women in Radio & Television (AWRT) which recognizes those responsible for “exemplary work by and about women in all facets of broadcasting and electronic media.” Mary was also presented with the Samaritan Award by the National Association of Broadcasters Education Foundation (NABEF) for her work on behalf of children’s charities. Mary is a member of the Board of Trustees for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Mary sits on the board of Simon Wiesenthal “Museum of Tolerance,” based in Los Angeles and Jerusalem. Mary was honored with the LifeTime Achievement Emmy Award from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. Mary has continued to Host the Palm Springs International film festival for nearly two decades.