In the aftermath of recent elections, a significant shift in Alaska’s political landscape has emerged with Republican Nick Begich securing the state’s only House seat. This victory not only enhances the Republicans’ slim majority in the House of Representatives but also emphasizes the precarious position of the party as several of its members prepare to exit their roles to join President-elect Donald Trump’s administration. As the new year approaches, the Republican Party finds itself in a situation where every upcoming vote will be critical, amplifying the significance of its narrow 219 to 213 majority over Democrats.
The dynamics of the House will play a crucial role in various legislative matters. House Speaker Mike Johnson faces formidable challenges including managing government funding negotiations and addressing unrest within his party’s right faction. These issues will loom large when the new Congress commences its session on January 3, just days before Trump officially assumes the presidency on January 20. The palpable tension among Republican members could either bolster or erode their influence in the face of the looming challenges.
Following Election Day, attention has been intensely focused on a few unresolved House races. Notably, Alaska’s ranked-choice voting culminated in Begich’s win over Democratic Representative Mary Peltola. Additionally, in Ohio, final tallies extended the narrow lead of Democratic Representative Marcy Kaptur in her district. These results now yield a Republican representation of 219 to 213, although the tally remains in flux with races still undecided in California and Iowa.
As Trump continues to shape his administration, he has already drawn from House Republicans to fill significant positions. Notably, Florida’s Rep. Matt Gaetz has been tapped for the position of Attorney General, while Rep. Michael Waltz will serve as national security adviser. Additionally, New York’s Rep. Elise Stefanik has been nominated for ambassador to the United Nations. While Gaetz has resigned from his House seat, Waltz and Stefanik continue to serve, but upcoming vacancies loom as a topic of concern, raising questions about the timing and outcomes of special elections to fill these openings.
The impact of this thin majority is particularly pronounced as state governors prepare to fill potential Senate vacancies. For instance, Vice President-elect JD Vance’s seat in Ohio is one being closely watched. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine is currently evaluating potential candidates for Vance’s seat but has indicated no rush to announce an appointment before the inauguration. The narrowness of the Republican majority in the House could complicate the appointments, as state-level political maneuvers proceed.
As the calendar inches closer to the inauguration, Vance’s decision regarding the timeline for stepping down remains uncertain. This creates additional tension, as any delays could affect the Republican strategy and their authority in the Senate.
Currently, three House races are still awaiting final outcomes. In Southeast Iowa’s 1st District, Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks leads Democratic challenger Christina Bohannan by only about 800 votes, triggering a recount following Bohannan’s campaign request. Adding to the drama is California’s 13th District where Republican Rep. John Duarte is in a tight contest against Democratic challenger Adam Gray. The race is exceptionally close with Duarte ahead by a mere 227 votes amidst ongoing ballot counting.
In California’s 45th District, another highly competitive race, Democratic challenger Derek Tran has taken a slim lead over Republican Rep. Michelle Steel. This district is particularly significant due to its large Asian American population, with Tran’s candidacy representing a vocal demographic in Orange County. Steel, recognized for her historical win as one of the first Korean American women in Congress, faces a formidable challenge as Tran seeks to expand representation for the local Vietnamese American community.
As this situation unfolds, with potential shifts in the House and Senate, the next weeks are poised to define the Republican Party’s trajectory and influence in the coming Congress. As attention turns to unresolved races and upcoming special elections, the political landscape appears even more charged, promising a contentious and pivotal legislative session ahead. CNN contributors Ethan Cohen and Jeff Zeleny have been closely monitoring these developments, providing valuable insight as events transpire.
