Overview
- Republicans hold a 218–213 edge, but the death of Rep. Doug LaMalfa, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s resignation, and Rep. Jim Baird’s hospitalization have reduced GOP voting strength.
- Democrats are expected to add a Houston-area seat later this month and fill New Jersey’s vacancy by April, further tightening the tally.
- The Georgia special election to replace Greene is set for March 10, potentially restoring a Republican seat after weeks with a thinner conference.
- Former Rep. Charlie Dent warned the GOP could forfeit control and even see Hakeem Jeffries as speaker this year, as analyst Steve Benen flags rumors that Elise Stefanik and Nancy Mace may consider leaving and notes Thomas Massie’s frequent breaks from party votes.
- Johnson downplayed the threat by invoking his faith and an image of the Red Sea parting, even as 216 votes are needed to pass bills and one Republican is sidelined, and President Donald Trump privately urged Republicans to brace for the risk of losing the majority.