Key facts
- Rep. James Gallagher (R-Calif.) was sworn into the House of Representatives on Wednesday.
- Gallagher won a special election on June 2 for California's 1st Congressional District.
- The seat was previously held by the late Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R).
- Gallagher will serve out the remainder of LaMalfa's term.
- His swearing-in increases the Republican majority in the House to 218 members.
Rep. James Gallagher (R-Calif.) was sworn into the House of Representatives on Wednesday, officially filling the seat for California's 1st Congressional District. His induction slightly expands the Republican majority in the chamber to 218 members.
Gallagher secured victory in a special election held on June 2, succeeding Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R), who passed away in January. Gallagher, a former state assemblymember endorsed by President Trump, will complete the remainder of LaMalfa's term.
During his floor speech, Gallagher pledged to continue LaMalfa's advocacy for rural Californians. Jill LaMalfa, the late lawmaker's wife, was present for the ceremony. House Speaker Mike Johnson's ability to lose votes on party lines increases with Gallagher's addition, assuming full attendance.
Colleagues from both parties welcomed Gallagher. Rep. Ken Calvert (R-Calif.), chair of the state's GOP delegation, expressed confidence that Gallagher would uphold LaMalfa's legacy. Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.), chair of the state's Democratic delegation, also acknowledged Gallagher's likely shared commitment to representing rural constituents.