The 117th Congress: A Period of Transition and Narrow Control
The 117th United States Congress, spanning from January 3, 2021, to January 3, 2023, marked a period of significant political transition in the United States. It coincided with the final weeks of Donald Trump’s presidency and the first two years of Joe Biden’s administration. This Congress was characterized by narrow control in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, leading to legislative challenges and a highly partisan environment.
House of Representatives: Democratic Majority
In the House of Representatives, the Democratic Party retained its majority, though reduced from the 116th Congress. This majority was comparable in size to the Republican majority during the 83rd Congress (1953-1955). Nancy Pelosi (D) served as the House Speaker throughout the 117th Congress.
Senate: A Shifting Balance of Power
The Senate experienced a more dramatic shift in power. Republicans initially held the majority at the start of the 117th Congress. Although, following the January 5, 2021, Georgia Senate runoffs, three new Democratic senators – Jon Ossoff, Raphael Warnock, and Alex Padilla – were sworn in on January 20, 2021.
This resulted in a 50-50 split between Republicans and Democrats, with two independent senators caucusing with the Democrats. This outcome hadn’t occurred since the 107th Congress in 2001. Kamala Harris, as Vice President, held the tie-breaking vote for the Democrats, effectively giving them control of the Senate.
Leadership During the 117th Congress
- Senate President: Mike Pence (R) until January 20, 2021, then Kamala Harris (D)
- House Speaker: Nancy Pelosi (D)
Sessions of the 117th Congress
The 117th Congress was divided into two sessions:
- 1st Session: January 3, 2021 – January 3, 2022
- 2nd Session: January 3, 2022 – January 3, 2023
Composition of the 117th Congress
- Senators: 100
- Representatives: 435
- Non-voting Delegates: 6
Looking Ahead
The 117th Congress concluded on January 3, 2023, giving way to the 118th Congress. The dynamics of the 117th Congress – particularly the narrow margins in both chambers – significantly shaped the legislative agenda and underscored the challenges of governing in a deeply divided political landscape.
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