House Republicans’ majority just got smaller with Waltz’s resignation

House Republicans lost another member after Congressman Mike Waltz resigned to take his post as President Trump’s National Security Adviser. The GOP majority in the chamber is now 218-215. 

A special election to replace Waltz will be held in April, the same time residents of the Florida panhandle are scheduled to elect Congressman Matt Gaetz’s replacement. 

Republicans are expected to lose more members to the Trump administration. Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., is nominated to serve as United Nations Ambassador. Once she is confirmed, the GOP will only be able to lose one vote to pass legislation without Democratic support. 

Stefanik has not officially resigned, but once she does, New York law states a special election must be held within three months. 

Each of the departing members come from safe Republican districts, so it is likely their seats will remain in Republican hands after the special elections. 

The shrinking Republican majority could have a significant impact on passing key pieces of legislation like the government spending bill that must be approved by March and a budget reconciliation package which Republicans want signed into law by Memorial Day. 

Even with Waltz and Stefanik, passage was not guaranteed. Their departures will make it necessary to bring forward a bill that can draw some Democratic support, to make up for conservative fiscal hawks who as of now say they’ll vote against it. 

Senate Republicans are also losing members to the Trump administration, but the constitution allows state governors to appoint replacements before the election, so those positions have already been filled. 

Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody will replace Senator Marco Rubio who is serving as Trump’s Secretary of State. Ohio Lt. Governor John Husted is filling the seat left vacant by Vice President JD Vance.