Staff Reports
With the addition of the newest Republican member to the House on Monday, the GOP's majority of 218 members was further cemented. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) will find it easier to push the Republican legislative agenda now that he has a little larger majority thanks to the addition of Rep. Vince Fong (R-CA).
The House was back to having 431 members for the first time since mid-March thanks to Fong's swearing-in ceremony, which strengthened the Republican majority. The GOP's small lead grows to two votes with Fong present, giving the party greater leeway in pushing important budget bills during the summer.
Speaker Johnson’s House majority strengthened after Vince Fong sworn in https://t.co/0zAYQvwN4B via @dcexaminer
— Cindy Leahy (@CindyLeahy21206) June 4, 2024
Fong, the newest member of Congress, conveyed his appreciation for the chance to serve as a powerful representative for the 20th District of California and to speak out for the people in the area. He defeated Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux to win the seat, and he will serve as the representative for California's 20th Congressional District for the balance of this Congress. Additionally, Fong's win puts him in a good position to win a full term in the forthcoming general election in November.
Fong has gained support from both party leaders and voters because to his strong relationship with former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and his adherence to Republican principles. McCarthy was a major contributor to Fong's campaign, helping him out at fundraisers and getting former President Donald Trump to endorse him. To help support Fong's candidacy, a McCarthy-affiliated political action committee made significant investments in a super PAC that supported Fong.
A noteworthy development as the House attempts to fill other vacancies left by other retiring or deceased MPs is the replacement of McCarthy's seat. Once filled, these positions should strengthen the Republican dominance even more. The overall change in the House also suggests that Speaker Johnson may face opposition from certain extreme party members. The failed attempt by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene to remove Johnson earlier this month is a glaring example of the party's continued backlash.
