As the dust settles from the 2024 election, the final count in the House remains uncertain with five crucial races yet to be called, leaving the Republican majority hanging in the balance.
At a Glance
- Republicans currently hold 218 seats to Democrats’ 212 in the House
- Five races remain uncalled, determining the size of the GOP majority
- Donald Trump won the presidency, and Republicans secured the Senate
- Tight races in Alaska, California, Iowa, and Ohio are still being tallied
- Final results may not be certified until December 13 in some states
Republican Majority Secured, but Margin Uncertain
The 2024 election has reshaped the political landscape, with Republicans securing control of both the White House and the Senate. However, the exact composition of the House of Representatives remains in flux. While the GOP has clinched a majority, the extent of their control hinges on the outcomes of five remaining uncalled races.
Currently, Republicans hold 218 seats compared to the Democrats’ 212, surpassing the 218-seat threshold required for a majority. This slim margin could expand or contract as the final votes are tallied in key battleground districts across the country.
Critical Races Still in Play
The focus now turns to the remaining uncalled races, which will determine the ultimate strength of the Republican majority. In Alaska, Republican Nick Begich is leading Democratic incumbent Mary Sattler Peltola, potentially adding another seat to the GOP column. California’s 13th District sees Republican John Duarte ahead of Democrat Adam Gray, while in another California race, Republican Michelle Steel is maintaining her lead over Democrat Derek Tran.
Iowa’s 1st District is witnessing a nail-biter between Republican Mariannet Miller-Meeks and Democrat Christina Bohannan, with a recount request already filed. “Miller-Meeks has declared victory and said she was confident in her lead,” Miller-Meeks stated, highlighting the tension surrounding this pivotal race.
Size of Republican House majority to be decided by 7 remaining uncalled races https://t.co/ptqQnRQr1c
— Fox News Politics (@foxnewspolitics) November 16, 2024
Implications of a Narrow Majority
The prospect of a slim Republican majority in the House echoes the challenges faced after the 2022 midterms. A narrow margin could potentially lead to internal conflicts within the GOP, as every vote becomes crucial for passing legislation. This scenario may require skilled negotiation and compromise to maintain party unity and effectively govern.
“I’d appoint 15 of you, but I can’t, because then you’d be in the minority,” Representative Marc Molinaro said, jokingly referencing the delicate balance of power.
The tight race has also prompted concerns about the slow ballot counting process, particularly in Western states like California. With only about 75% of votes counted statewide in some areas, the final results may not be known for weeks, prolonging the uncertainty surrounding the House majority.
