Overview
- At a House Republican retreat at President Trump's Doral resort, Speaker Mike Johnson told reporters, "Do not bet against the House Republicans," as leaders set strategy for the year and campaign season.
- MS NOW reported that several House Republicans described widespread pessimism about holding the chamber, with one member speaking anonymously to detail the mood.
- An anonymous lawmaker said most colleagues do not expect to keep the majority and argued public optimism is necessary to avoid drying up fundraising.
- Rep. Brandon Gill said many GOP voters see Congress as "do-nothing" and warned that the Senate's refusal to pass the SAVE America Act could lead to heavy losses.
- Recent Democratic election wins in late 2025 and early 2026 have buoyed Democratic strategists, even as many Republicans voice confidence on conservative television outlets.