Lead-up to the crucial season involving government funding, immigration, and critical matters such as Ukraine/Israel relations, influencers and allies of former President Donald Trump find themselves increasingly uneasy. The cause for concern stems from a growing trend among Republicans who are either retiring, leaving office, or finding themselves unable to contribute votes to the House GOP’s agenda.
The precarious nature of the already slim majority has been exacerbated by the recent retirement announcement from Rep. Bill Smith, who disclosed his plans to step down and transition to academia back in November. However, the realization of the potential consequences is settling in as some Republicans engage in a careful assessment of the numerical impact.
NBC News reported a “fragile” outlook for the GOP majority, stating, “The House GOP majority is looking fragile heading into a crucial season with gov’t funding, immigration and Ukraine/Israel $ on the line.” The departure of key figures such as SANTOS & McCARTHY leaves the majority at 220-213. With Bill Johnson set to leave on 1/21, the count drops to 219, and until SCALISE returns, it stands at 218. A special election in NY03 on 2/13 adds an additional layer of complexity.
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Reacting to the developments, former Donald Trump adviser Stephen Miller urged Rep. Bill Johnson to reconsider his retirement plans, suggesting a delay in his departure from Congress.
Expressing similar concerns, independent journalist and Trump ally Laura Loomer speculated on possible motives behind the trend. Pointing to the retirement announcement of Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer, she raised the question of whether House Republicans might be intentionally jeopardizing their majority, potentially aligning with a sentiment against Donald Trump.
MAGA podcast host Joey Mannarino echoed these concerns, emphasizing the imminent threat to the GOP majority. He noted the current two-seat majority, highlighting the absence of Steve Scalise until February and the pivotal role Bill Johnson’s departure will play in the delicate balance, with hopes that Scalise’s return will restore stability.
