House Updates: Patronis, Fine Seated After Wins; Pappas to Seek NH Senate Seat

After winning their respective special elections on Tuesday, Republican Reps. Jimmy Patronis (FL-01) and Randy Fine (FL-06) were sworn in on Wednesday.

The two newest members of the GOP caucus give Speaker Mike Johnson a little more breathing room, expanding the party's partisan advantage to 220-213. 

There are now two vacancies, both previously held by Democrats who passed away about a week apart last month. Sylvester Turner (TX-18) died March 5; Raul Grijalva (AZ-07) died March 13. The Arizona seat will be filled via special election on September 25. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) has not yet set a date to elect a successor to Turner.

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Separately, Rep. Chris Pappas (NH-01) announced Thursday that he will run for the New Hampshire U.S. Senate seat. Pappas will look to succeed fellow Democrat Jeanne Shaheen, who is retiring. Pappas is the first notable candidate to enter what is expected to be one of the more competitive 2026 Senate elections. 

Four current U.S. House members have announced they are leaving in 2026. Pappas is the only Democrat on the list, and also the only one in a competitive seat. The three retiring Republicans are all running for governor.