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Mike Johnson is facing a new challenge as the Republican speaker with the smallest House majority in history. Despite maintaining control of the House, he will have to lead with a smaller majority while President-elect Donald J. Trump seeks his support in pushing through key agenda items.
Written by Catie Edmondson
Covering news from the government
The margin of victory for Speaker Mike Johnson has decreased even further.
The final House race was decided on Tuesday night when Representative John Duarte, a new Republican member, admitted defeat to Democrat Adam Gray. This victory solidified a 220-215 majority for Republicans, which is even narrower than their current majority of 220-213.
In January, the margins will decrease even more as Representatives Elise Stefanik from New York and Mike Waltz from Florida step down to work in the Trump administration. Additionally, former Representative Matt Gaetz from Florida has announced that he will not be returning.
The Republicans will have a slim majority of 217-215 in the House, which is one of the smallest margins in history. If all Democrats oppose a measure, Mr. Johnson cannot afford any Republicans defecting until vacancies are filled. Even after the vacancies are filled, only three Republicans can go against the party without causing a bill to fail.
On Wednesday, Mr. Johnson appeared calm and unbothered by the idea, stating to reporters at Capitol Hill that they are experienced in working with a small majority and that it is a common occurrence for them.
He mentioned that they have no extra resources to contribute. However, all members are aware of this. They discussed the importance of working together as a team and moving in the same direction during their meeting today.
He didn’t talk about how he achieved success in managing a small majority by working with Democrats to pass important bills that his own party didn’t support. This strategy may not work in the next Congress with President-elect Donald J. Trump as the President.
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