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Mike Johnson is facing a new challenge with the smallest majority in House history. As the Republican speaker, he managed to retain control of the House, but now faces 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 important agenda items.
Written by Catie Edmondson
Reporting live from the Capitol.
The margin of Speaker Mike Johnson’s lead has decreased.
The last House race was concluded on Tuesday evening when Representative John Duarte, a new Republican member, accepted defeat to Democrat Adam Gray. This solidified a 220-215 majority for Republicans, a slight increase from their current 220-213 margin.
The margins will decrease even more in January 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 he will not be coming back.
After the special election, 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 stand together against a proposal, Mr. Johnson cannot afford any of his party members to vote against it until the vacant positions 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 unconcerned about the situation and reassured reporters on Capitol Hill that they are experienced in working with a small majority and it is something they are accustomed to.
He mentioned that they have no extra resources to give away, but all members are aware of this. They discussed this during their meeting today, as they always do – emphasizing the importance of teamwork and everyone working together towards the same goal.
He didn’t talk about how he achieved success in passing important laws with a small majority by working with Democrats, even though his own party didn’t support them. This strategy may not work in the future when Donald J. Trump becomes president and his party has more power in Congress.
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