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Mike Johnson is facing a new challenge with the smallest majority in the history of the House. Despite still being in control as the Republican speaker, he will be leading a 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
Reporting live from the seat of
The margin of Speaker Mike Johnson’s lead has decreased, making his majority even more narrow.
The last House race was decided on Tuesday evening when Representative John Duarte, a first-term Republican from California, admitted defeat to Democrat Adam Gray. This victory solidified a 220-215 majority for the Republicans, a slightly narrower margin than they currently hold at 220-213.
In January, the margins will decrease even more as Representatives Elise Stefanik from New York and Mike Waltz from Florida step down to accept positions in the Trump administration. Former Representative Matt Gaetz from Florida has also announced that he will not be coming back.
After the special election, the Republican majority in the House will be reduced to 217-215, which is one of the smallest margins in history. If all Democrats are present and vote against a bill, Mr. Johnson will need every Republican to support it until the vacant seats are filled. Even after the vacancies are filled, only three Republicans can go against party lines without jeopardizing the bill’s chances of passing.
On Wednesday, Mr. Johnson appeared calm about the situation, stating to reporters in Capitol Hill that working with a small majority is something they are familiar with and have experience in.
He mentioned that they do not have any extra resources to spare, but all members are aware of this. They discussed the importance of teamwork and unity, emphasizing the need for everyone to work together towards a common goal.
He didn’t talk about how he achieved success in getting important laws approved despite having a small majority by working with Democrats, since his own party didn’t support those laws. This strategy may not work in the future with President-elect Donald J. Trump leading the country.
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