Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI) announced he will leave the House before the end of his term, but due to Wisconsin law, his seat will remain empty until November.
CBS News reported:
Gallagher, who represents Wisconsin’s 8th congressional district, said he will leave Congress on April 19, rather than stay until January to complete his term. His departure means that Republicans can lose just one vote if all Democrats remain united.
“I have worked closely with the House Republican leadership on this timeline and look forward to seeing President Johnson nominate a new chair to carry out the important mission of the Select Committee of the Chinese Communist Party,” he said in a Note.
The problem for Republicans is which states Wisconsin law that congressional vacancies occurring before the second Tuesday in April can be filled more quickly. After the second Tuesday in April, the seat will remain vacant until the November election.
For more stories like this, sign up for our The Daily newsletter.
House Republicans are now one vote away from losing their majority. If a member gets sick, is absent or another Republican suddenly leaves, the House GOP will no longer be the majority.
Marjorie Taylor Greene’s motion to vacate is a big deal for House Republicans, but they could easily lose their majority to one more frustrated person who gives up and jumps ship.
It would be appropriate for this group of Republicans to lose their majority before Election Day.
A special message from PoliticusUSA
If you are in a position to donate exclusively to help us keep the doors open on PoliticusUSA during what is a critical election year, please do so here.
We are honored to be able to put your interests first for 14 years as we respond only to our readers and will not compromise on that core, core value of PoliticusUSA.
Jason is the managing editor. He is also a member of the White House press pool and a congressional correspondent for PoliticusUSA. Jason has a bachelor’s degree in political science. His graduate work focused on public policy, with a specialization in social reform movements.
Professional rewards and subscriptions
Member of the Society of Professional Journalists and the American Political Science Association