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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 now lead a smaller majority as President-elect Donald J. Trump seeks his support to push through important agenda items.
Written by Catie Edmondson
Reporting from the government building.
The margin of Speaker Mike Johnson’s majority has decreased even further.
The last House race was decided on Tuesday evening when Representative John Duarte of California, a new Republican, admitted defeat to Democrat Adam Gray. This solidified a 220-215 majority for the Republicans, which was even tighter 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 join the Trump administration. Additionally, former Representative Matt Gaetz from Florida 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, which is one of the smallest margins of control in history. If all Democrats are present and united against a bill, Mr. Johnson will need every Republican to support it until vacancies are filled. Even after the vacancies are filled, only three Republicans can vote against a bill without it failing to pass.
On Wednesday, Mr. Johnson appeared unperturbed about the possibility and reassured reporters on Capitol Hill that handling a small majority is something they are accustomed to and capable of managing effectively.
He mentioned that there are no extra resources available. However, all members are aware of this. They discussed this during their meeting today, as they always do, emphasizing the importance of working together as a team towards a common goal.
He didn’t say that a lot of his ability to pass important legislation with a small majority came from working with Democrats, since his own party wouldn’t support it. However, this strategy may not work in the future when Donald J. Trump becomes President and the next Congress convenes.
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