The early departures of two Republican House members have reduced the GOP’s majority to a single vote, raising concerns that additional retirements could allow Democrats to take control before the midterm elections.
Reports indicate some Republicans are looking to leave Congress as soon as possible to take private sector jobs, frustrated with the current political climate.
“Other Republicans are angling to get out as soon as they can,” Fox News’ Chad Pergram wrote. “A big payday in the private sector could lure some members to cash in their voting card early.”
If the Republican margin shrinks further, it’s theoretically possible for control of the House to change parties mid-Congress for the first time ever.
“Control of the House has never changed in the middle of a Congress. But if it’s going to happen, the 118th Congress is as ripe for that possibility,” Pergram said.
One GOP member urged a colleague not to retire, warning that additional empty seats could put Democrats in position to elect a Speaker from their party until special elections are held.
Maintaining a unified Republican team was emphasized as crucial to retaining the majority.
“We can get a special election. It’s a very safe Republican seat. We’ll add to our majority. We don’t have the other special [election] to fill Kevin McCarthy’s seat until April 30th. And we’re perilous. We could end up being– having a Speaker Hakeem Jeffries in the interim here while we’re waiting for special elections,” Rep. Claudia Tenney said.
“Personally, if you’re going to make a commitment to the people that elect you, that you’re going to serve for two years unless you have a really good reason not to serve, then why would you do that? And aren’t we team Republican?” she asked.
"We could end up having a Speaker Hakeem Jeffries in the interim here while we're waiting for special elections" — Rep. Claudia Tenney threatens us with a good time pic.twitter.com/MnB22P0NVp
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) March 25, 2024
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