Former President Donald Trump criticized Republicans who are choosing to retire from the House, which will further reduce the GOP’s already narrow majority in the chamber.
In a recent post on his Truth Social platform, the former president directed his criticism towards Representative Mike Gallagher (R-WI). Despite House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) reportedly urging him to reconsider, Gallagher remains steadfast in his decision to leave Congress.
“Let us never forget those who are cowardly and weak!” Trump expressed in a passionate tone. “Their actions are truly disgraceful.”
Gallagher’s departure puts the GOP in a vulnerable position. The congressman from Wisconsin is scheduled to resign on April 19th. As a result, Republicans will hold a narrow 217-214 majority in the House. This means that the GOP can only afford to lose one Republican vote to secure the passage of any legislation.
According to Wisconsin law, if Gallagher had chosen to resign before April 9, a special election would have been conducted to fill the vacant seat. However, as he did not resign, the seat will remain empty until the new Congress is seated in January 2025.
Gallagher’s departure is the latest blow to the GOP majority, following Rep. Ken Buck’s exit earlier this month. Buck cited his disillusionment with the party and former President Donald Trump as the reason for his departure.
“I won’t deceive on behalf of my presidential candidate or my party,” Buck expressed to NewsNation on March 3. “It deeply saddens me to see others in my party adopt the belief that as long as we secure the White House, the truth becomes irrelevant.”