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The latest challenge for Mike Johnson is having the smallest House majority in history. Despite remaining as the Republican speaker, he will now lead with 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
Covering news from the legislative
The margin of victory for Speaker Mike Johnson has decreased even further.
The last House race was declared on Tuesday evening when Representative John Duarte from California, a new Republican member, accepted defeat to Adam Gray, a Democrat. This solidified a 220-215 majority for the Republicans, which is even smaller than their current 220-213 majority.
In January, the margins will decrease more when Representatives Elise Stefanik from New York and Mike Waltz from Florida leave their positions to work in the Trump administration. Additionally, former Representative Matt Gaetz from Florida has announced he will not be returning.
After the special election, Republicans will have a slim majority of 217-215 in the House of Representatives, which is the smallest margin in history. If all Democrats oppose a measure, Mr. Johnson cannot afford any Republicans to defect until the vacant seats are filled. Even after the vacancies are filled, only three Republicans can oppose a bill without it failing to pass.
On Wednesday, Mr. Johnson appeared unfazed about the situation and assured reporters on Capitol Hill that they are experienced in operating with a small majority because it is something they are accustomed to.
He mentioned that they don’t have any extra resources to use. However, all the members are aware of this. They discussed this during their meeting today and emphasize the importance of working together as a team towards the same goal.
He did not discuss how he achieved success in leading a small majority by working with Democrats to pass important bills that his own party did not support. This strategy may not be possible in the future with President-elect Donald J. Trump in office.
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