GOP Secures House Majority: What’s Next for Congress
The 2024 election has yielded a significant outcome: Republicans have retained control of the House of Representatives, as projected by NBC News. This development comes on the heels of President-elect Donald Trump’s victory and the GOP’s gain of majority control in the Senate.
A Razor-Thin Majority Expands
Prior to the election, House Republicans held a slim majority of 220 seats to Democrats’ 212, with three vacancies. Despite Democrats’ high hopes of flipping the chamber, they were unable to gain the necessary four seats to seize control. Instead, Republicans have expanded their majority, solidifying their grip on the House.
Fundraising Efforts Fall Short
Democrats had outraised their Republican rivals in all but one of the 26 House races rated as “toss-ups” by the Cook Political Report with Amy Walter. Moreover, they outspent Republicans in crucial races from July through September. However, these significant fundraising efforts ultimately failed to stem the tide of the red wave.
Key Races Decide the Outcome
Several competitive races played a crucial role in shaping the outcome. In Pennsylvania’s 8th Congressional District, Republican Rob Bresnahan unseated incumbent Democratic Rep. Matt Cartwright. Meanwhile, in the state’s 7th District, Republican Ryan Mackenzie defeated incumbent Democratic Rep. Susan Wild. In Michigan, Republican Tom Barret grabbed an open seat in the 7th Congressional District formerly held by Democrat Elissa Slotkin.
A One-Party-Controlled Congress: Key Issues Ahead
With Republicans firmly in control of both the House and Senate, several critical issues await legislative attention. One pressing matter is the extension of the $3.3 trillion Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, much of which is set to expire next year. President-elect Trump has expressed his desire to not only extend the tax breaks but also pursue deeper cuts. Additionally, Congress must address the extension of enhanced subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, which expire at the end of 2025. A looming debt ceiling fight also looms on the horizon.
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