Reporter’s Notebook: Congress braces for post-election game of musical chairs as leadership battles loom

Congressional parties are expected to hold leadership elections in the weeks after the election, with the outcomes shaped by which party controls each chamber. The contests could bring major changes, particularly for House Republicans if they lose their majority, as they would have to choose between current leaders and potential challengers.

If Republicans retain the House, Speaker Mike Johnson, Steve Scalise and Tom Emmer are expected to keep their roles. If they lose it, Jim Jordan could seek the top Republican post; his past bid for speaker failed, but he has since built support and remains close to Donald Trump. Democrats are likely to promote Hakeem Jeffries to speaker if they win the House, with Katherine Clark and Pete Aguilar moving into senior roles, though a loss could prompt calls for new leadership. The article also says the Senate parties will choose their leaders, but its text ends before detailing those contests.