State Senator Tim Kennedy won the special election for New York’s 26th Congressional District, narrowing Republicans’ majority in the US House. Kennedy, a Democrat, defeated Republican nominee Gary Dickson and will succeed fellow Democrat Brian Higgins in the Buffalo-based district. This victory will shrink the GOP majority in the House to just 217-213, giving Speaker Mike Johnson less leeway in party-line votes.
Despite the temporary narrowing of the Republicans’ majority, a series of upcoming special elections for vacant Republican seats, including the race to replace former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in California, are expected to extend the GOP’s advantage in the chamber. Higgins, who had represented the Buffalo area since 2005, resigned in February to lead a local performing arts center, citing frustration with Congress’ dysfunction and lack of progress.
Kennedy, who has served in the state Senate for over a decade, will complete the remainder of Higgins’ term and will also run in the June primary for the full two-year term starting in January. The district is expected to remain Democratic-friendly, with Joe Biden winning by a significant margin under the new district lines. The campaign for the special election saw around $1 million in ad spending, mostly from Kennedy’s campaign, highlighting his support for working families, abortion rights, and stronger gun laws.
Kennedy’s victory marks the second consecutive special election win for New York Democrats, following Tom Suozzi’s win earlier in the year. Once sworn in, the state’s US House delegation will consist of 16 Democrats and 10 Republicans. The chaotic redistricting process in New York over the past two years has led to multiple court battles, but the 26th District remains favorable to Democrats.
The dynamics of the House of Representatives are shifting with Kennedy’s win, setting the stage for further political developments in the coming months. The influence of each party’s members will be crucial in shaping legislative decisions and policy outcomes. The expected wins in upcoming special elections are likely to bolster the GOP’s position, while Democrats aim to build on their recent successes in New York and other states. Overall, the political landscape in Congress continues to evolve, with implications for future governance and policy-making.
