In a surprising turn of events, Rep. Bill Johnson (R-Ohio) has confirmed an earlier-than-expected resignation date of January 21, which will significantly reduce the House Republican majority. Johnson was originally anticipated to resign before mid-March to assume the role of president at Youngstown State University.

With Johnson's departure, the House of Representatives will now consist of 219 Republicans, 213 Democrats, and three vacancies. This slim majority puts added pressure on Republicans, who can only afford to lose two votes on any party-line measure assuming full attendance.

The current Republican majority was previously cushioned by three votes, with the recent resignation of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) on December 31 and the expulsion of former Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) accounting for the other two vacancies. However, the diminishing majority will likely complicate the advancement of major legislation and government funding as the impending Jan. 19 and Feb. 2 deadlines approach.

The House GOP majority could face further uncertainty with an upcoming special election and an anticipated resignation. A special election to fill Santos' seat is scheduled for Feb. 13, and election analysts from the nonpartisan Cook Political Report have labeled it a "toss-up." Former Rep. Tom Suozzi (D) will face Republican Mazi Melesa Pilip, a Nassau County Legislator, in the race. The outcome of this election could impact the House majority count.

Meanwhile, Rep. Brian Higgins (D-N.Y.) is expected to resign from the House in February, according to sources. Higgins expressed disillusionment with the dysfunction in Congress when announcing his decision to step down. His resignation will further influence the composition of the House GOP majority.

In a resignation letter addressed to Ohio Governor Mike DeWine (R) and Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), Bill Johnson emphasized the importance of the blue-collar communities in his district who he believes have been overlooked by the country's "elites." Johnson expressed gratitude for being repeatedly elected to serve these vital communities.

As the House Republican majority continues to narrow, the stakes have never been higher for the GOP to maintain party unity and navigate the challenges that lie ahead. With crucial deadlines for government funding looming, every vote will count in determining the future of major legislation.