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Mike Johnson is facing a new challenge with the smallest House majority in history. Despite remaining in control of the House as the Republican speaker, he will have to manage an even smaller majority during a crucial time when President-elect Donald J. Trump will rely on his support to push through key agenda items.
Written by Catie Edmondson
Reporting from the seat of government
The margin of Speaker Mike Johnson’s majority has decreased even further.
On Tuesday night, the last House race was decided when Representative John Duarte from California, a new Republican member, admitted defeat to Democrat Adam Gray. This result solidified a 220-215 majority for the Republicans, which is slightly smaller than their current 220-213 majority.
The margins will decrease even more in January as Representatives Elise Stefanik and Mike Waltz resign from their positions in order to work in the Trump administration. Additionally, former Representative Matt Gaetz has announced that he will not be coming back.
After the special election, Republicans will have a slim majority of 217-215 in the House of Representatives, which is one of the smallest margins in history. If all Democrats are present and united against a bill, Mr. Johnson cannot afford to have any Republicans defect until the vacant seats are filled. Even after the vacancies are filled, only three Republicans can oppose a bill without it failing to pass.
On Wednesday, Mr. Johnson appeared calm and unaffected by the situation, stating to journalists on Capitol Hill that they are experienced in working with a small majority and that it is something they are used to.
He mentioned that there is no excess to give as all members are aware of this. The team discussed this today and regularly reiterates the importance of working together towards a common goal.
He achieved success in steering a small majority by working with Democrats to pass necessary laws that his own party did not support. However, this strategy may not be possible in the future with President-elect Donald J. Trump in power.
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