Republican Matt Van Epps is sworn in as the newest House member days after winning election

The U.S. Supreme Court has reinstated Texas' Republican-friendly congressional map for the 2026 midterm elections, overriding a lower court ruling that deemed the map an illegal attempt to diminish minority voting power. This decision allows Texas to proceed with a redistricting plan that is expected to favor the Republican Party.

Speaker Mike Johnson is facing increasing challenges as Republicans in the narrowly divided House seek to work around him, reflecting growing discontent within the party. This situation has escalated tensions, particularly among House Republican women who are reportedly in open revolt against his leadership.

House Speaker Mike Johnson has urged fellow Republicans to address their grievances privately rather than airing frustrations publicly, following a tumultuous week marked by internal party tensions. Johnson's plea comes as he faces increasing challenges in maintaining unity within a narrowly divided House of Representatives.

Republican Matt Van Epps narrowly won the special election for Tennessee's 7th Congressional District, defeating Democrat Aftyn Behn by a margin of 52% to 46%. This election, held on December 2, 2025, was closely monitored due to its implications for both parties, especially in a district that heavily favored Trump in the past.

The House recently passed two bills aimed at addressing foreign influence in U.S. schools, garnering bipartisan support; however, over 160 Democrats opposed these measures, which target foreign funding. This opposition underscores a significant divide within the party regarding the approach to foreign involvement in education.

Speaker Mike Johnson is experiencing significant challenges in maintaining control of the House floor, as tensions rise among House Republicans less than a year before the crucial 2026 midterm elections. Discontent within the party is evident, with some members seeking to work around Johnson, particularly among House Republican women who are expressing dissatisfaction with his leadership.

Republican Matt Van Epps won the special election for Tennessee's 7th Congressional District, defeating Democrat Aftyn Behn by a margin of 52% to 46%. This election, held on December 2, 2025, was significant as it maintained Republican control in a district that has historically leaned Republican despite substantial Democratic investment and campaigning efforts.

The special election in Tennessee's 7th Congressional District concluded with Republican Matt Van Epps defeating Democrat Aftyn Behn by a margin of 52% to 46%. This election, held on December 2, 2025, was closely watched as it serves as a bellwether for both parties ahead of the 2026 midterms.