What A Day And Then The Majority Was 2
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Jan 8, 2026 
Burgess Everett, the Congressional bureau chief at Semafor, shares his insights on the precarious state of the GOP’s slim majority in the House. He discusses the implications of resignations and the potential for intense political chaos in Congress. Burgess explores the challenges of bipartisan healthcare negotiations and the looming risk of a government shutdown. He also analyzes the uncertain impact of upcoming War Powers votes and redistricting changes as the 2026 elections approach, painting a vivid picture of the legislative landscape.
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House Majority Hangs By A Thread
- The GOP House majority is razor thin at 218, meaning 216 votes now pass legislation with vacancies reducing total seats.
- That math forces Speaker Mike Johnson to lose at most two Republicans on party-line votes, severely constraining agenda-building.
Venezuela Moves Test Congressional Authority
- Burgess Everett says Trump's Venezuela actions shocked Congress and exposed a willingness to bypass lawmakers.
- A War Powers vote in the Senate will force Republicans to go on record about limiting military actions without congressional authorization.
Passed Resolutions May Not Restrain The White House
- Everett doubts President Trump would necessarily follow a War Powers resolution even if passed, noting the administration's disregard for congressional input.
- The president previously pushed procedural changes to speed confirmations, underscoring his independence from legislative constraints.