Dems Allegedly Seek Election Delay for Stefanik’s Seat to Weaken GOP House Majority

New York Democrats are reportedly strategizing to block Speaker Mike Johnson from solidifying a full majority as House Republicans strive to pass significant elements of President Donald Trump’s legislative agenda. Democratic lawmakers in New York’s state legislature might introduce a bill soon to delay the special election for the seat vacated by Republican New York Rep. Elise Stefanik. This move would postpone the election until June, aligning it with the state’s scheduled primary elections.

Changing the state law to delay the special election could prevent House Republicans from gaining an additional seat, crucial at a time when the GOP is working to push a budget reconciliation package through Congress. This action starkly contrasts with a party that has consistently portrayed itself as “pro-democracy” during the 2024 election cycle. Democrats have previously labeled Trump as a “fascist” who would bring about authoritarianism if reelected.

President Donald Trump has nominated Stefanik, former House Republican Conference chair, to serve as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. She is expected to be confirmed soon, having already passed the Senate Foreign Relations Committee by voice vote. Once Stefanik resigns, House Republicans will hold a narrow 217-215 majority, giving just one Republican the power to block any bill if all Democrats oppose it.

New York Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul has up to 10 days to declare a special election for a vacant congressional seat. She then has an additional 70 to 80 days to hold the election after Stefanik’s resignation, according to current New York state law. Stefanik’s northern New York district is heavily Republican, and the winner of the special election is likely to be a Republican candidate.

New York Republicans have harshly criticized state Democrats for seeking to delay the special election. They accuse Democrats of planning an “anti-Democratic power grab” to deny Johnson a complete House majority. “When Democrats can’t compete, they cheat,” said New York Republican State Party chair Ed Cox in a press release.

Cox called the delay a “disgraceful scheme” orchestrated by Albany Democrats to manipulate the special election calendar for their own partisan advantage. He argued this undermines North Country voters, whose congressional representation is needed most. Republican Rep. Mike Lawler echoed these sentiments, labeling it an outrageous abuse of power.

Lawler urged Governor Hochul to clarify that such a delay will not happen and called on Rep. Jeffries to denounce the move immediately. A spokesperson for Hochul defended the possible change, stating that Hochul believes in increasing voter turnout and reducing election administration costs. Hochul would support legislation that achieves these goals.

Despite these claims, Hochul’s approval rating remains low, with less than half of voters approving of her job performance, according to recent polling by Siena College. Nearly 60% of New Yorkers expressed a desire for “someone else” to serve as the state’s next governor rather than Hochul running for a second term. As congressional Democrats struggle to address Trump’s agenda, the party’s approval rating is dropping.

A Quinnipiac poll released recently shows just over 30% of registered voters have a favorable view of the Democratic Party. This is a significant decline, marking some of the lowest approval ratings in recent history. A spokesperson for Hochul and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

As the political landscape continues to shift, House Republicans are watching closely. The potential delay in New York’s special election could have significant ramifications for their legislative plans. The GOP remains determined to maintain their majority and advance their agenda.

The Democratic Party faces internal challenges and external scrutiny as they navigate this tumultuous period. With public approval waning, they are under pressure to present a unified and effective front. The unfolding situation in New York may serve as an indicator of broader political trends.

In this highly charged atmosphere, both parties are preparing for a contentious battle. Republicans are fiercely defending their positions and seeking to capitalize on any Democratic missteps. Meanwhile, Democrats are working to rally their base and regain public trust.

As the stakes rise, New York’s political scene becomes a microcosm of national tensions. Both parties are keenly aware of the implications of their actions. The outcome of this special election could echo far beyond the borders of New York.