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The latest challenge for Mike Johnson is having the smallest House majority ever. Although the Republican speaker maintained control of the House, he will now lead an even slimmer 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.
Covering news from the legislative
The margin of victory for Speaker Mike Johnson has decreased even further.
The last House race was officially decided on Tuesday evening when Representative John Duarte from California, a first-term Republican, admitted defeat to Democrat Adam Gray. This solidified a Republican majority of 220-215 in the House, a slight increase from their current margin of 220-213.
In January, the margins will decrease even more as Representatives Elise Stefanik and Mike Waltz resign from their positions to work in the Trump administration. Additionally, former Representative Matt Gaetz has announced he will not be returning.
After the special election, Republicans will have a slim majority of 217-215 in the House, which is one of the smallest margins in history. If all Democrats oppose a measure, Mr. Johnson cannot afford to lose any votes on the House floor until vacant seats 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 assured reporters that they are experienced in working with a small majority, as it is something they are used to.
He stated that they have no extra resources to provide, but all members are aware of this. They discussed this today, as they always do, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and unity in working towards a common goal.
He succeeded in navigating a small majority by working with Democrats to pass important bills that his own party did not support. However, this strategy may not be possible in the next Congress with President-elect Donald J. Trump in office.
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