Prom
Backed by
Mike Johnson is facing a new challenge as the Republican speaker with the smallest House majority in history. Despite maintaining control of the House, he will lead an even narrower 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
Writing from the legislative building
The margin of victory for Speaker Mike Johnson has decreased.
The last House race was decided on Tuesday evening when Representative John Duarte of California, a new Republican member, admitted defeat to Democrat Adam Gray. This victory secured a 220-215 majority for Republicans, which is even tighter than their current majority of 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 work in the Trump administration. Additionally, former Representative Matt Gaetz of Florida has informed that he will not be coming back.
After the special election, the Republican majority in the House will shrink to 217-215, which is the smallest margin in House history. If all Democrats oppose a bill, Mr. Johnson will need every Republican vote to pass it until new members are sworn in. Even after the vacancies are filled, only three Republicans can vote against a bill without it failing.
On Wednesday, Mr. Johnson appeared unbothered by the possibility, stating to Capitol Hill reporters that they are experienced in working with a narrow majority and it is something they are used to.
He further explained that they do not have any extra resources to offer, but all members are aware of this. They discussed this topic today, as they always do, emphasizing the importance of working together as a team towards a common goal.
He didn’t talk about how he achieved success in working with a small majority by teaming up with Democrats to pass necessary laws that his party didn’t back. However, this strategy may no longer be possible in the upcoming Congress with Donald J. Trump as President.
We are currently experiencing difficulties in accessing the content of the article.
To use all the features on this website, make sure to
We appreciate your understanding as we confirm your access. If you are currently using Reader mode, please close it and sign in to your Times account, or consider subscribing to access all of The Times content.
We appreciate your understanding as we confirm access.
Are you already a member? Sign in.
Looking to have access to all of The Times content? Subscribe now
Prom
Table of Contents
Navigation for Site Information