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Mike Johnson is facing a new challenge as the Republican speaker with the smallest majority in history. Although he maintained control of the House, he will now have to manage an even smaller majority while President-elect Donald J. Trump relies on his support to push through important agenda items.
Written by Catie Edmondson
Reporting from the seat of government
Mike Johnson’s already slim majority has become even narrower with recent developments.
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 solidified a 220-215 majority for the Republicans, with a smaller margin than they currently hold at 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 join the Trump administration. Additionally, former Representative Matt Gaetz from Florida has announced that he will not be coming back.
The Republicans will have a slim majority of 217-215 in the House, which is one of the smallest margins in history. If all Democrats oppose a measure, Mr. Johnson cannot afford any Republicans to defect on the House floor until the vacancies are filled. Even after the vacancies are filled, no more than three Republicans can go against the party without causing a bill to fail.
On Wednesday, Mr. Johnson appeared unbothered by the idea and reassured reporters on Capitol Hill that they are accustomed to working with a small majority.
He stated that they do not have any extra resources to give. However, all members are aware of this and it is consistently discussed. It is emphasized that everyone needs to work together towards a common goal.
He didn’t talk about how he achieved success in managing a small majority by working with Democrats to pass important bills that his own party didn’t back. This strategy may not work in the next Congress with President-elect Donald J. Trump leading the country.
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