McCarthy Exits the House; Republican Majority Narrows as 2024 Gets Underway

2024 begins with two vacancies in the U.S. House. One is in CA-20, where former Speaker Kevin McCarthy's resignation was effective as of December 31. The other vacancy is in NY-03; George Santos was expelled on December 1. 

With these departures, the Republican majority has narrowed. When the House reconvenes next week, the party will hold 220 seats, with Democrats controlling 213.

The special election in NY-03 takes place on February 13. Former Rep. Tom Suozzi will be the Democratic nominee; Republicans chose Mazi Melesa Pilip, a Nassau County Legislator.

In CA-20, Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) will have 14 days to call a special election, which is likely to take place in May. It will be preceded by a March primary, possibly on the 5th, which is the same date as California's 2024 statewide primary. Under state law, if a candidate gets a majority of the vote in a special primary, they are elected. 

There are two additional upcoming resignations that have already been announced. Democrat Brian Higgins (NY-26) is leaving in February. A special election date will be set by Gov. Kathy Hochul (D).

Republican Bill Johnson (OH-06) is departing before mid-March. The timing is such that the seat will likely remain vacant through much of the year. Update: Johnson's resignation will be effective on January 21.