The resignation of U.S. Representative Matt Gaetz from Florida’s 1st Congressional District was formally recorded Friday in the U.S. House of Representatives. This development came as U.S. Representative Mike Johnson was elected House Speaker. Gaetz’s resignation concludes his tenure in the 118th Congress and the 119th Congress following a tumultuous series of events.
Initially reelected in November, Gaetz stepped down upon being nominated as Attorney General by President-elect Donald Trump. However, after a November 21 meeting with senators, Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration. On December 23, the House Ethics Committee released a report alleging Gaetz engaged in sexual misconduct and illicit drug use. These findings added to the challenges facing the congressman and his future in public office.
Florida voters will elect Gaetz’s replacement in a special election. The primary is scheduled for January 28, and the general election will be held on April 1. The 1st Congressional District, a Republican stronghold, remains unlikely to flip to Democrats. Gaetz previously secured reelection with 66% of the vote, reflecting strong GOP dominance in the northwest Florida district.
The vacancy in Florida’s 6th Congressional District adds another layer of complexity to the House’s narrow Republican majority of 219-215. Representative Michael Waltz, who represents the district, is slated to resign by January 20 to serve as President Trump’s national security advisor. Waltz, a former U.S. Army Special Forces soldier, won his last election with 66.54% of the vote.
Both seats are expected to remain Republican, though the pending vacancies temporarily narrow the GOP’s majority. These developments come as the 119th Congress navigates key legislative challenges under new leadership.