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Mike Johnson is facing a new challenge: leading the House with the smallest majority in history. As the Republican speaker, he managed to retain control of the House, but now faces the task of overseeing an even smaller majority. This comes at a crucial time when President-elect Donald J. Trump will rely on his support to push forward important agenda items.
Written by Catie Edmondson
Covering news from the seat
Mike Johnson, the speaker, now has an even smaller majority than before.
The last House race was decided on Tuesday evening when first-term Republican Representative John Duarte from California conceded to Democrat Adam Gray. This victory solidified a 220-215 majority for the Republicans, a slight increase from their current 220-213 margin.
The margins will decrease more in January when Elise Stefanik and Mike Waltz resign from their positions as Representatives in New York and Florida to work in the Trump administration. Additionally, Matt Gaetz has announced he will not be returning to his position as a former Representative from Florida.
The Republicans will have a slim majority of 217-215 in the House, which is one of the smallest margins ever. If all Democrats are present and united against a proposal, Mr. Johnson will need every Republican vote until vacancies are filled. Even after that, 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, which is something they are used to.
He mentioned that they do not have any extra resources to give. However, all members are aware of this fact and they discussed it during a meeting today, as they always do. They emphasized the importance of working together as a team and moving in the same direction.
He didn’t talk about how he achieved success in dealing with a small majority by working with Democrats to pass important laws that his own party didn’t support. This strategy may not work in the future with President-elect Donald J. Trump in office.
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