Trump’s razor-thin House majority on the brink as Republican eyes early exit
A 72-year-old Republican congressman may retire early, according to reports, a move that would further threaten the GOP‘s control over the House of Representatives.
Florida Rep. Neal Dunn announced last month that he would not be seeking re-election. He has served as the representative for Florida’s 2nd congressional district since 2017.
Dunn’s potential early retirement could throw a wrench in Speaker Mike Johnson‘s control over the House and throttle Donald Trump‘s agenda.
If Dunn gives up his seat before his term ends in January 2027, Republican House leadership could face major headaches trying to pass any party-line legislation.
Currently, the House has 218 Republicans and 214 Democrats, meaning that Republicans can only afford to lose one member on any party-line vote.
Should Dunn retire early, Republicans – at least momentarily – would not be able to pass any legislation without receiving Democratic support. A tie vote ultimately fails, according to House rules.
However, a special election for ex-Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene‘s former seat, set for March, should add another Republican to the House, given how conservative the district is.
Speaker Johnson is already facing difficulties passing any legislation without getting the entire GOP conference on board with his priorities. This has led to some of the longest votes in US history, forcing Johnson to keep votes open for hours until he gets everyone to back his agenda.
Congressmen Neal Dunn and Ishmael Toroama, President of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville
Dunn’s potential early retirement could throw a wrench in Speaker Mike Johnson’s control over the House of Representatives and tie up legislation pushed by President Donald Trump
Currently Republicans only have a one-vote margin in the House of Representatives
Despite an effort from GOP leadership to get Dunn to stick around, multiple Republican lawmakers have told Politico that the Florida Republican is likely to retire early in the coming months.
When asked by the outlet on Wednesday about his intentions, Dunn responded: ‘no comment.’
The Republican has been spotted wearing a face mask on Capitol Hill in recent weeks, setting off speculation about his health.
‘Don’t I look good?’ Dunn told reporters when asked about his health.
Johnson noted how keeping Dunn around is a priority of his on Wednesday.
‘Neal Dunn is a beloved member of Congress and a great man, and you know, he’s informed us he’s not going to run for reelection,’ Johnson said.
‘But I’ve encouraged him to stay and be a part of this, and I think he wants to do that.’
Chatter about who could replace Dunn has already begun.
Reports indicate that Bruesewitz and DeSantis may be interested in running for Dunn’s seat
The stage may be set for a messy primary between two major conservatives with dueling loyalties.
Trump campaign adviser Alex Bruesewitz, who is credited with helping Trump connect with younger voters, is reportedly mulling a bid for the district, Florida’s Voice reports.
Governor Ron DeSantis’s wife, Casey DeSantis, may also be keen on running in the district, Florida Politics reports.
Dunn’s office did not immediately respond to the Daily Mail’s request for comment.
