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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 have to lead with an even smaller majority during 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 government
The margin of victory for Speaker Mike Johnson has decreased.
The final House race was decided on Tuesday night when Representative John Duarte of California, a new Republican member, accepted defeat to Adam Gray, a Democrat. This solidified a 220-215 majority for the Republicans, which is even narrower than their current 220-213 majority.
The margins will decrease even more in January when Representatives Elise Stefanik from New York and Mike Waltz from Florida step down from their positions to work in the Trump administration. Additionally, former Representative Matt Gaetz from Florida has announced that 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 closest margins in history. As long as all Democrats oppose a measure, Mr. Johnson will need every Republican to support it on the House floor until the 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 calm about the situation and reassured reporters on Capitol Hill that they are experienced in working with a small majority, which is something they are used to.
He mentioned that there is no extra resources available, but all members are aware of that. The importance of teamwork and everyone working together towards the same goal was discussed today, as it is a regular topic of conversation.
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 wouldn’t support. This strategy may not work in the future with President-elect Donald J. Trump in office.
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