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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 now have to lead with an even smaller majority during a time when President-elect Donald J. Trump will rely on his support to push through key agenda items.
Written by Catie Edmondson
Covering news from the seat
The margin of victory for Speaker Mike Johnson has decreased.
The last House race was determined on Tuesday night when Representative John Duarte, a new Republican member, accepted defeat to Democrat Adam Gray. This solidified a 220-215 majority for the Republicans, which is even narrower than their current 220-213 majority.
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. Another former Representative, Matt Gaetz from Florida, has also announced he will not be coming back.
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 stick together in opposing a bill, Mr. Johnson cannot afford to lose any votes until vacancies are filled later in the spring. Even after that, only three Republicans can vote against a bill without it failing to pass.
On Wednesday, Mr. Johnson appeared unconcerned about the situation and assured reporters 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. All members are aware of this and have discussed it, emphasizing the need for teamwork and cooperation. They must all work together towards a common goal.
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 be possible in the future with President-elect Donald J. Trump in office.
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