The 119th Congress officially opened today. The Republicans hold slim majorities in both Houses. It’s 218 to 215 in the House of Representatives with 1 vacancy and 52 to 47 with one vacancy in the Senate. That vacancy will be filled by current West Virginia Governor Jim Justice once his replacement is sworn in on 13 January.
Senate leadership was decided back in November. John Thune of South Dakota is the Senate Majority leader. Chuck Shumer of New York is the minority leader.
The House leadership however was decided today. Mike Johnson of Louisiana was elected as Speaker of the House over Hakeem Jeffries of NY. Johnson won on the second vote 218-215. Thomas Massie of Kentucky voted for Tom Emmer of Minnesota. Speaker Johnson was the choice of President Trump.
Next up is the counting and certification of the Electoral College votes on Monday 6 January.