What's happened
Recent resignations and deaths have triggered key special elections in Georgia and California, impacting control of the House and shaping political dynamics ahead of 2026. Georgia's GOP primary is set for March, while California's special election is scheduled for May, both drawing national attention.
What's behind the headline?
The upcoming elections highlight ongoing partisan tensions and internal divisions within both parties. Georgia's GOP primary will test the strength of Trump-aligned candidates amid intra-party conflicts, while California's House race could shift the balance of power in a narrowly divided chamber. The timing of these elections, close to the midterms, ensures heightened national scrutiny. The Georgia race, in particular, underscores the influence of Trump’s legacy and intra-party factionalism, as candidates align either with or against his policies. Meanwhile, California's election reflects the broader struggle over control of the House, with the death of LaMalfa narrowing the GOP majority. These contests will serve as early indicators of voter sentiment and party strength, with potential implications for legislative priorities and political strategies in 2026.
What the papers say
The AP News articles provide detailed coverage of the Georgia and California special elections, highlighting the political stakes and candidate fields. The New York Times offers insight into Greene's resignation and the broader implications for Georgia's district, emphasizing the internal party conflicts and the district's conservative leaning. Contrasting opinions from these sources reveal the focus on intra-party dynamics and the strategic importance of these elections in shaping the 2026 political landscape. The AP's emphasis on candidate fields and election timing complements the NYT's analysis of district significance and internal party tensions, illustrating the multifaceted nature of these upcoming races.
How we got here
The resignations and deaths of prominent representatives in Georgia and California have created openings for special elections. Greene's resignation from Georgia's 14th district followed internal conflicts and her criticism of Trump, while LaMalfa's death in California prompted a special election to fill his seat. These events are part of broader political shifts ahead of the 2026 midterms.
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