Republican House majority in peril after yet another congressman announces resignation

Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi

Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI) will resign from his position next month and leave the Republican's House majority "hanging by a thread," according to his press team and reports.

Gallagher, 40, made the unusual mid-term announcement Friday on X, where he disclosed his last day serving Wisconsin's Eighth Congressional district will be April 19.

"Four terms serving Northeast Wisconsin in Congress has been the honor of a lifetime and strengthened my conviction that America is the greatest country in the history of the world," Gallagher said.

"After conversations with my family, I have made the decision to resign my position."

After a spate of early resignations from House Republicans such as Rep. Ken Buck (R-CO), Gallagher's early departure will leave his party with a single vote to spare on upcoming legislation, NBC reports.

The news outlet described Gallagher's announcement as a "blow" for Speaker Mike Johnson, who on Friday received more news of a tenuous hold on power in the form of a motion to vacate him from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene.

Gallagher's move slashes House Republican's thin majority from 218-213 down to 217-213, which could spell trouble should Democrats unite and vote together. House Republicans could only afford a single defection.

Gallagher, chairman of the select committee investigating the Chinese Communist Party, has reportedly grown frustrated with Republican antics that included the impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, NBC reports.

The Wisconsin lawmaker received both praise and criticism from fellow lawmakers after he made his official statement.

"An outstanding member," replied Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN). "He contributed much to policy decisions and earned some respect for our nation from around the globe."

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"It was an honour to meet you when our Canadian Special Committee on China came to Washington to trade ideas on a difficult and important relationship," added Ken Hardie, a member of Canada's House of Commons. "You have distinguished yourself as a passionate, intelligent advocate on behalf of your constituents and your nation."

But others wanted answers.

"Imagine not only leaving Republicans with a one seat majortiy [sic] but also your last vote in Congress being in favor of a $1.2 TRILLION omnibus," snapped James Reichart. "You will not be missed!"

"Disappointed," added Neil Thompson. "You should serve out your term."

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