What's happened
Following the deaths of California's Rep. LaMalfa and Georgia's Rep. Greene, special elections are scheduled in both states. California's election will determine control of the House, while Georgia's will test GOP support ahead of 2026 midterms. Both races will shape political dynamics this year.
What's behind the headline?
The upcoming special elections in California and Georgia are pivotal for the balance of power in the House. LaMalfa's death narrows the GOP majority to 218 seats, heightening the stakes for the California race, which could influence legislative momentum. Meanwhile, Georgia's election, though unlikely to shift control, offers a barometer of Republican support and intra-party fissures. The timing of these elections, close to the midterms, ensures heightened national attention. The Georgia race also highlights ongoing party realignments, with Greene's resignation reflecting internal GOP tensions. Overall, these elections will serve as early indicators of voter sentiment and party strength heading into 2026, with potential implications for legislative agendas and party strategies.
What the papers say
The AP News reports that California's special election could be as early as May, with control of the House at stake due to LaMalfa's death, which narrowed the GOP majority. The New York Times details Greene's resignation in Georgia, scheduled for March 10, amid a crowded Republican field and intra-party tensions. Both articles emphasize the strategic importance of these races in the broader political landscape, especially with the upcoming midterms. The AP highlights the legal framework and timing, while the NYT underscores the intra-party dynamics and voter mood, providing a comprehensive view of the unfolding electoral landscape.
How we got here
Rep. Doug LaMalfa's death in California and Rep. Marjorie Greene's resignation in Georgia have created vacancies in the House. California law mandates a special election within 14 days for LaMalfa's seat, with the election scheduled for May or June. Greene's Georgia seat will be contested on March 10, with a runoff possible in April. These events occur amid a narrow GOP majority and shifting political alliances, with both states holding primaries and general elections in 2026.
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