Special elections to fill the vacancies left by Gaetz and Waltz are scheduled for April 1, 2025, while the timeline for Stefanik's replacement is pending.

House Republicans successfully defended their slim majority in the 2024 elections, holding a 220-215 advantage after the final race in California's 13th District was called on December 3, 2024.

With these resignations, the Republican majority could shrink to as low as 217-215, significantly limiting their margin for error on crucial votes.

Gaetz has already resigned to pursue the attorney general position, while Waltz and Stefanik are expected to take roles in the Trump administration.

Contentious budget fights are expected in early 2025, with significant issues around appropriations and potential debt ceiling disputes looming.

The House will also need to address unfinished business from the outgoing Congress, including government funding and disaster relief legislation.

However, due to the resignation of former Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz and the anticipated departures of Mike Waltz and Elise Stefanik, the GOP is set to start the new session with only 219 seats.

Democrat Adam Gray's victory in California's 13th Congressional District resulted in a net gain of one seat for Democrats, bringing their total to 215.

This narrow majority means that any defection from the GOP could lead to a tie at 216-216, which would block the passage of legislation.

Speaker Mike Johnson has previously relied on Democratic votes to pass critical funding bills, highlighting the ongoing challenges for the GOP's slim majority.

GOP leadership faces pressure from hard-line factions, complicating governance on key issues like the debt limit and budget negotiations.

Looking ahead, Speaker Johnson has outlined a legislative agenda focusing on energy, defense, and border security as top priorities for the new Congress.