Ohio GOP Representative Bill Johnson’s premature exit from the House further narrows the Republicans’ slender majority in Congress. On January 2, he declared his intention to resign on January 21, preceding his assumption of the presidency at Youngstown State University in March.
In his letter of resignation, Representative Johnson conveyed his pride in the district, characterizing it as proud and patriotic. He subtly referenced perceived neglect by the country’s elites and underscored the vital contribution of blue-collar communities, often referred to as flyover country, in shaping the nation’s history. He emphasized their significance in America’s future. According to WFMJ, he humbly recognized his repeated election to represent these communities.
Following Johnson’s departure, the House will be composed of 219 Republicans, 213 Democrats, and three vacant seats. With a slim majority of 219 Republicans, the GOP can only sustain a loss of two votes on any party-line matters when everyone is present. Notably, Kevin McCarthy, the former Speaker, departed on December 31, and George Santos, the GOP Representative from New York, was removed last month.
The slimmer majority could present challenges, especially concerning spending bills necessary to keep the government operational. Moreover, the House is confronted with urgent issues such as providing funding for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia and supporting Israel amid ongoing operations in Gaza following the October 7 attack by Hamas. Notably, the government funding legislation is scheduled to expire in two phases: January 19 and February 2, aligning with Johnson leaving.
A special election is slated for February 13 to fill the void created by Santos’ departure in New York’s third Congressional District. Former Democratic Representative Tom Souzzi, endorsed by his party, seeks to regain the seat he relinquished in his pursuit of the governorship.
Republicans have chosen Mazi Melesa Pilip, a member of the Nassau County Legislature. Originally from Ethiopia, she relocated to Israel at the age of 12 before arriving in the US in 2005. The competition is tight, with one poll indicating that Souzzi is ahead of Pilip by three points.
Next month, 64-year-old Democratic Representative Brian Higgins of New York will leave the House, offering the GOP a degree of relief. He pointed to his frustration with the sluggish pace of progress in Washington as a contributing factor to his choice.
