Here is what is going on: With the announcement of Representative Mike Gallagher’s (R-WI) resignation on April 19, the GOP’s majority is now down to just one member.
Why it is important: House Speaker Mike Johnson, who was elected in October, finds it very challenging to enact legislation with such a small majority. Democrats are also far more influential; the loss of just one or two GOP lawmakers might prevent legislation from passing or result in major compromises.
- Real Numbers: The GOP leadership can afford to lose just one vote on any given bill or motion because of its 217 members. With two losses, the House is tied at 215-215.
Numerous high-profile resignations: from Congress this session have preceded Gallagher’s resignation. This year, previous Speakers Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) and Chris Stewart (R-UT) both resigned, as did Ken Buck (R-CO) and Bill Johnson (R-OH).
- Santos expulsion: A Democrat won George Santos’ seat in the subsequent special election after he was forced out of Congress last year.
What is the reason behind their departure? Rep. Stewart brought up his wife’s health, and Johnson accepted a job in academics. The others, though, just feel fed up with the Republican caucus. Buck claimed that because of internal “bickering and nonsense,” this was the worst year to be in Congress “in 40 or 50 years.”
What comes next: Two Republicans remain in the May race to succeed McCarthy, and Gallagher’s seat won’t be filled until November. The regularly red districts of Buck and Johnson won’t have elections to replace them until June. In the end, the 2024 elections could decide who wins the House.
The post House Republicans Hit by Wave of Resignations first appeared on Boveed.
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