January marks a critical period for U.S. Congress as Republicans solidify power following the November elections, securing control of the Senate, House of Representatives, and the White House.
JAN. 3: The 119th Congress convenes with new members being sworn in. Republicans hold a narrow 219-215 majority in the House, while the Senate is split 53-47, well below the 60 votes needed for most legislation. Republican Senator John Thune has been selected as Senate majority leader. Attention turns to the House as Speaker Mike Johnson seeks re-election, backed by President-elect Donald Trump. However, if even two Republicans oppose him, Johnson’s speakership could be in jeopardy. Democrats will nominate Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries but are expected to fall short of the votes needed to win.
JAN. 6: Exactly four years after the Capitol riot, Congress will reconvene to certify Trump’s 2024 election win during a joint session. Vice President Kamala Harris, as Senate president, will preside over the Electoral College count. While a repeat of the January 6th violence is not expected, reforms have been made to the certification process to prevent disruptions. Trump has also pledged to pardon some January 6 defendants upon taking office.
JAN. 7-9: A national day of mourning is declared for former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on December 29 at the age of 100. His remains will lie in state at the Capitol Rotunda from Jan. 7 to 9 ahead of his state funeral.
JAN. 20: Trump will be sworn in as the 47th president at the Capitol, becoming only the second president to be reelected after leaving office. On his first day, he’s expected to announce executive actions on immigration and energy, along with Cabinet nominations.
Also read: White House Pushes Cybersecurity Upgrades for Healthcare After Massive Breaches
