WASHINGTON — Republican leaders expressed confidence on Thursday that they would retain control of the U.S. House, especially as more seats were won in their favor. Despite this, Democrats maintained that they still saw a potential path to reclaiming the majority and emphasized the importance of counting every vote accurately.
The GOP secured two significant victories in Pennsylvania, which has emerged as a battleground revealing numerous Democratic setbacks across various races. However, Democrats celebrated a win in New York, successfully ousting a third Republican incumbent in the state.
As Congress readies to reconvene next week, representatives from both parties participated in private conference calls to evaluate the shifting political dynamics in Washington. The prospect of an assertive GOP led by President-elect Donald Trump seemed increasingly likely.
Rep. Mike Johnson of Louisiana reassured colleagues in a letter, stating, “The latest data indicates that we will also hold — and likely grow — our Republican majority in the House,” as he seeks support for remaining in his role as House speaker.
In contrast, Democratic Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries remarked that it was “yet to be decided” which party would ultimately control the House, given that several pivotal races remained too close to call. Focusing their efforts, Democrats identified opportunities to flip a few key seats in states such as Arizona and California to narrow the gap. “We must count every vote,” Jeffries reiterated.
The final count of House seats is unlikely to be completed until Congress returns to session, when new leaders—including the House speaker—are set to be elected, as well as a new senator to take over for outgoing GOP Leader Mitch McConnell.
The election results exceeded Republican expectations, even including a majority in the Senate. Numerous races were decided as the day progressed, including wins in Pennsylvania, where Republican Ryan Mackenzie unseated Democratic Rep. Susan Wild, and Republican Robert Bresnahan defeated Matt Cartwright, a Democratic incumbent.
Meanwhile, in New York, Democrats made strides as Laura Gillen successfully won against GOP Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, marking the third Democratic flip in Jeffries’ home state. As the focus shifted westward, Democrats are eyeing high-stakes races in Arizona and several contests in California to secure a significant number of wins needed for a claim to power. However, delays in counting mail-in ballots in California may prolong the final results.
Republican Rep. Richard Hudson, chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee, relayed confidence to lawmakers on a private call about the GOP’s chances of retaining their House majority. Accumulating support from Trump, Republican leaders, including Mike Johnson, have been more unified in driving a Republican agenda closely aligned with Trump’s MAGA ideals compared to what had previously been a more traditional conservative platform.
Johnson invoked a sports analogy when discussing team unity, stating that he is “ready to take the field with all of you” to undertake “the biggest offense of our lives.” While Johnson appears set to continue as House speaker if the Republicans maintain control, the race to replace McConnell as Senate leader is shaping up to be highly competitive.
The contenders for the Senate leadership position include No. 2 Republican Sen. John Thune and Texas Sen. John Cornyn, alongside the longshot, Sen. Rick Scott from Florida. Thune has worked diligently to repair his relationship with Trump, who has significantly shaped the Republican agenda.
Thune mentioned that it may be beneficial for Trump to avoid playing a direct role in the leadership race, suggesting that it could be best for the process to organically yield the right candidate. “It’s his prerogative to weigh in on that,” Thune stated. He further added that establishing a solid team would help ensure a smooth transition for Trump’s new agenda aimed at tax cuts, stricter immigration enforcement, and deregulation.
However, after two tumultuous years during which the GOP held the House, questions loom about the party’s ability to effectively navigate another closely divided chamber, particularly with potential resistance from Democrats.
