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Mike Johnson is facing a new challenge as the Republican speaker with the smallest majority in the history of the House. Despite maintaining control, he will lead a smaller majority during a crucial time when President-elect Donald J. Trump will rely on his support to pass important agenda items.
Written by Catie Edmondson
Covering news from the seat
The margin of Speaker Mike Johnson’s lead has decreased.
The last House race was decided on Tuesday night when Representative John Duarte, a new Republican member, admitted defeat to Democrat Adam Gray. This solidified a Republican majority of 220-215, which is even narrower than their current majority of 220-213.
The margins will decrease more in January 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 that he will not be returning.
After the special election, the Republicans will have a slim majority of 217-215 in the House, which is one of the narrowest margins 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 vote against a bill without it failing to pass.
On Wednesday, Mr. Johnson appeared calm about the idea and reassured reporters on Capitol Hill that they were experienced in dealing with a small majority and it was something they were used to.
He stated that they have no extra resources to give. The members are aware of this and have discussed it, emphasizing the importance of working together as a team towards a common goal.
He didn’t talk about how he achieved success in managing a narrow majority by working with Democrats to pass important laws that his own party didn’t support. This approach may not work in the future when President-elect Donald J. Trump is in office.
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