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The latest challenge for Mike Johnson is having the smallest House majority ever. As the Republican speaker, he managed to keep control of the House, but now faces leading 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 headquarters
The margin of victory for Speaker Mike Johnson 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 solidified a 220-215 majority for the Republicans, which is even tighter than their current 220-213 majority.
The margins will decrease even more in January 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 from Florida has announced he will not be coming back.
After the upcoming special election, the Republican majority in the House will likely be reduced to 217-215, which would be one of the smallest margins in the history of the House. If all Democrats stand together against a proposal, Mr. Johnson will need every single Republican to support it until the vacant seats are filled. Even after the vacancies are filled, only three Republican defectors would be allowed for a bill to pass.
On Wednesday, Mr. Johnson seemed unconcerned about the possibility and reassured reporters on Capitol Hill that they are experienced in working with a small majority and it is something they are accustomed to.
He stated that there is no extra resources available, but all members are aware of that. They had discussed this today and frequently emphasize the importance of teamwork and unity towards a common goal.
He succeeded in managing a small majority by working with Democrats to pass essential laws that his own party didn’t back. However, this strategy may not be possible in the future when Donald J. Trump becomes President.
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