With Republicans holding a slim 222-212 majority in the House, McCarthy can only lose the support of four party members before failing to garner the 218 total votes needed to be elected speaker.
In the first round of votes earlier on Tuesday, 19 Republicans voted against McCarthy, leading to a second ballot. Enough Republicans again voted against McCarthy during the second round, setting the stage for a third vote, although the voting is still ongoing.
Members of the House Freedom Caucus, including Congressmen Andy Biggs and Scott Perry, have voiced opposition to McCarthy.
McCarthy said earlier on Tuesday that several congressmen offered their support in exchange for certain committee assignments and other political concessions.
The failed votes mark the first time in a century that the House of Representatives has failed to select a speaker during the first ballot.