Control of US House Hangs in the Balance as Key Races Remain Uncalled

The control of the US House of Representatives remains uncertain as several key congressional races are still uncalled, with the outcome hanging precariously in the balance. According to the latest updates, there are 19 races that have not been decided, with Republicans currently leading in 212 seats to the Democrats‘ 204[3].

Democrats need a net gain of four seats to secure the majority, but as of now, they have flipped four seats and are leading in one other of the 10 remaining competitive Republican-held seats. Republicans, on the other hand, have flipped three seats and are leading in two of the 10 remaining Democratic-held competitive seats. If these trends hold, it would result in no net gain for either party, allowing Republicans to retain their current slim majority of four seats[1].

Several races in California, Arizona, and Colorado are particularly crucial. In California, districts such as the 21st, 27th, and 47th are closely contested. For instance, in Orange County, Democratic candidates like Dave Min and Derek Tran are in tight races against Republican incumbents Scott Baugh and Michelle Steel, respectively.

In Arizona, the race in Congressional District 6 between Republican incumbent Juan Ciscomani and Democratic challenger Kirsten Engel is the closest in the nation, with the margin as narrow as 60 votes at one point. This race is so tight that it has triggered the possibility of a mandatory recount under Arizona law.

Republican leaders are expressing confidence in retaining control of the House, while Democrats are holding onto the hope of sweeping the most contested races to gain the majority. However, final results will take time as Arizona and California continue to count ballots[2].

The ongoing vote counting and the close margins in these races underscore the high stakes and the intense competition for control of the US House in the 2024 election.