Republicans Seize Control of House, Completing ‘Trifecta’ After Tight Election Battle
The Republican Party has secured a decisive victory in the 2024 United States elections, gaining enough seats to maintain control of the House of Representatives, Al Jazeera reports, citing other media outlets.
The Associated Press, often used as a benchmark in election coverage, announced that the party had crossed the 218-seat threshold on Wednesday evening, solidifying their dominance in both chambers of Congress.
This win gives Republicans control over all three branches of government, a so-called “trifecta,” following former President Donald Trump’s commanding victory in the presidential race and the conservative-leaning Supreme Court solidified by justices appointed during his term.
“We stand united, determined, and ready to deliver the America First Agenda,” House Speaker Mike Johnson declared on social media earlier in the day, reflecting the party’s commitment to implementing its platform.
While many races, including the presidential contest, were called within hours of Election Day on November 5th, the battle for the House stretched over a week. The close nature of individual races, combined with the large number of seats up for grabs and varying election laws and protocols across the country, contributed to the prolonged count.
States like California, which sends mail-in ballots to all registered voters and offers same-day registration, faced significant delays in processing and verifying ballots. Similar challenges arose in states like Arizona, where signature verification procedures extended the counting process.
Republican victories in key races, including Arizona’s 6th congressional district, California’s 41st and 22nd congressional districts, and a flipped seat in Colorado’s 8th congressional district, ultimately propelled the party to victory.
The “trifecta” win provides Republicans with a clear path to implement their policy priorities with minimal opposition from the left. However, historical precedents suggest that even a trifecta cannot fully guarantee against internal dissent.
Democrats faced similar challenges during their own trifecta between 2021 and 2023, with internal disagreements hindering the passage of certain policy goals.
On Wednesday, Republicans voted in favor of Representative Johnson’s continued tenure as House Speaker. Trump addressed Republican lawmakers, delivering a “pep rally” speech that further galvanized the party.
