Three U.S. House races remain uncalled weeks after Election Day, leaving the size of the Republican majority in question. California’s 13th and 45th districts, along with Iowa’s 1st district, are still counting votes in what could determine the GOP’s ability to govern effectively.
Republican Rep. John Duarte holds a narrow lead over Democrat Adam Gray in California’s 13th district. Duarte leads by 204 votes, a razor-thin margin reminiscent of his 2022 victory, which wasn’t called until December.
In California’s 45th district, Democrat Derek Tran is ahead of Republican Rep. Michelle Steel by just 545 votes. With 99% of the vote counted, this race remains too close to call.
Iowa’s 1st district recount has begun, with Republican Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks maintaining an 800-vote lead over Democrat Christina Bohannan. Miller-Meeks has criticized the recount as wasteful, though Decision Desk HQ has already declared her the winner.
The Associated Press currently shows Republicans with 219 seats to Democrats’ 213. If GOP candidates secure the remaining uncalled races, Republicans will hold 221 seats to the Democrats’ 214, though upcoming special elections could alter these figures.
The slim majority underscores the challenges Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) faces in maintaining party unity. These unresolved races will be critical in determining how effectively Republicans can push their legislative agenda.
