Mike Waltz Resigns to Join Trump Administration

Republican Florida Rep. Mike Waltz will resign from Congress on January 20, the day President-elect Donald Trump is inaugurated, to become Trump's national security adviser. Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd announced that the special primary election for Waltz's seat will take place on January 28, with the general election scheduled for April 1. Waltz's departure adds to the challenges for House Republicans, who will already be down at least two members due to his resignation and the recent exit of former Rep. Matt Gaetz. During his time in Congress, Waltz has been a strong advocate for national security issues, aligning closely with Trump's foreign policy agenda. His resignation means he will still participate in the January 3 vote for House Speaker, where the slim majority will be crucial. Meanwhile, other Trump appointees, such as Rep. Elise Stefanik for U.N. ambassador, are also vacating their seats, complicating the GOP's legislative strategy during the initial months of the new administration.