Prom
Backed by
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 lead an even smaller majority during a crucial time when President-elect Donald J. Trump will rely on his assistance to push through important agenda items.
Written by Catie Edmondson
Covering news from the government
The small lead held by Speaker Mike Johnson has decreased even further.
On Tuesday evening, the last House race was decided when Representative John Duarte, a new Republican, accepted defeat to Democrat Adam Gray, solidifying a 220-215 majority for Republicans. This majority is even narrower than their current one of 220-213.
In January, the margins will decrease even more as Representatives Elise Stefanik of New York and Mike Waltz of Florida step down to join the Trump administration. Additionally, former Representative Matt Gaetz of Florida has announced that he will not be coming back.
After the special election, Republicans will have a slim 217-215 majority in the House, matching the smallest controlling margin in history. If all Democrats are present and united against a proposal, Mr. Johnson will need every Republican vote to pass it until the vacancies are filled. Even after that, only three Republicans can vote against a bill without it failing.
On Wednesday, Mr. Johnson appeared calm and unconcerned about the situation, stating to journalists on Capitol Hill that they are experienced in working with a small majority and it is something they are accustomed to.
He stated that they do not have any extra resources to give, but all of their members are aware of this. They discussed this during their meeting today and regularly emphasize the importance of working together as a team towards a common goal.
He didn’t talk about how he achieved success in managing a small majority in the past year by working with Democrats to pass important laws that his own party didn’t back. This strategy may not work in the future with President-elect Donald J. Trump in power.
We are currently experiencing difficulties in getting the article’s content.
To use certain features on this website, make sure to activate
We appreciate your understanding as we confirm your access. If you are using Reader mode, please close it and sign in to your Times account, or consider subscribing to access all of The Times content.
We appreciate your patience as we confirm access.
Are you already signed up? Please log in.
Interested in accessing all of The Times’ content? Subscribe now.
Prom
Index of Pages
Navigation for Site Information