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Mike Johnson is facing a new challenge as the Republican speaker of the House, with the smallest majority in history. Despite maintaining control of the House, he will be leading an even smaller majority. This comes at a crucial time when President-elect Donald J. Trump will rely on his support to push through significant agenda items.
Written by Catie Edmondson
Updating from the legislative center
Mike Johnson, the speaker, now has an even smaller majority than before.
The final House race was concluded on Tuesday evening when Representative John Duarte of California, a new Republican member, accepted defeat to Democrat Adam Gray. This victory solidified a 220-215 majority for Republicans, which is even smaller than their current 220-213 majority.
In January, the margins will decrease even more when Representatives Elise Stefanik of New York and Mike Waltz of Florida leave their positions to work in the Trump administration. Additionally, former Representative Matt Gaetz of Florida has announced that he will not be coming back.
The Republicans will have a slight majority of 217-215 in the House, which is one of the smallest margins in history. If all Democrats oppose a measure, Mr. Johnson will need all of his party members present and united to pass it until the vacant seats are filled. Even then, only three Republicans can vote against the party without causing a bill to fail.
Mr. Johnson seemed calm and unbothered when discussing the situation on Wednesday. He assured reporters on Capitol Hill that they are experienced in working with a small majority and it is something they are used to.
He stated that there is no excess resources available. However, all members are aware of this. They discussed this today, as they always do, emphasizing the importance of working together as a team and moving in the same direction.
He didn’t talk about how he achieved success in leading a small majority by working with Democrats to pass important legislation that his own party didn’t back. This strategy may not be an option in the future when President-elect Donald J. Trump is in office.
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