Live Updates: The 2025 Republican-led Congress Begins its First Day

 The 119th Congress opens with Republicans holding majorities in both chambers and a vote to re-elect Mike Johnson as Speaker of the House.

Mike Johnson on Capitol Hill on Dec. 10.

Updated Jan. 3, 2025, 6:27 PM GMT+6

What to Know About the New Congress
Lawmakers in the 119th Congress are being sworn in today, marking the first time since 2019 that Republicans control both chambers. The House will convene at noon to vote on re-electing Mike Johnson as Speaker, with even a couple of Republican defections potentially preventing his election. In the Senate, Republicans selected John Thune of South Dakota as Majority Leader in November.

With a narrow majority in the House, Republicans will face significant challenges in passing legislation. Internal disagreements within the caucus could derail votes, while in the Senate, Democrats will be crucial to advancing most bills.