Potential Resignation of Florida Congressman Neal Dunn Could Hurt GOP House Majority

Dunn's early departure from Congress could further shrink the Republican Party's thin majority in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Florida Republican Congressman Neal Dunn's potential early resignation from his seat has sparked speculation and concerns about the impact on the GOP's already slim majority in the U.S. House of Representatives. Dunn, a loyal supporter of former President Donald Trump, had announced he would not seek re-election in 2026, but now there are reports that he may resign from his seat even earlier. This could further reduce the Republican Party's control of the House, which is currently at a razor-thin 217-214 margin.

Why it matters

Dunn's potential early resignation would be a significant blow to the Republican Party's efforts to maintain control of the House of Representatives. With the House divided so narrowly, the loss of even a single GOP seat could tip the balance of power and make it more difficult for the party to advance its legislative agenda. This development is being closely watched as it could have broader implications for the balance of power in Congress.

The details

Rumors of Dunn's potential resignation began circulating in early February 2026, with a spokesperson initially denying the reports. However, by February 11th, news outlets were reporting that House Republican leadership believes Dunn will resign by July. Dunn has been dealing with health problems, and House Speaker Mike Johnson has reportedly urged him to serve out the remainder of his term. Dunn, a Trump loyalist, has represented Florida's 2nd Congressional District for 10 years and is among a record number of 30 Republicans not seeking re-election in 2026.

  • The rumors of Dunn's potential resignation started in the week of February 9, 2026.
  • On February 11, 2026, news outlets reported that House Republican leadership believes Dunn will resign by July.

The players

Neal Dunn

A Republican Congressman representing Florida's 2nd Congressional District, who has announced he will not seek re-election in 2026. There are now reports that he may resign from his seat even earlier.

Mike Johnson

The current Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, who has reportedly urged Dunn to serve out the remainder of his term.

Ron DeSantis

The Governor of Florida, who would be responsible for scheduling a primary and special election to fill Dunn's vacant congressional seat.

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What they’re saying

“House Republican leadership believes that Neal Dunn is going to resign by July. I know Dunn is denying it. But the leadership thinks he's gone in five months.”

— Jake Sherman, Founder of Punchbowl News (Punchbowl News)

“I encouraged him to stay and be a part of this, and I think he wants to do that.”

— Mike Johnson, Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives (POLITICO)

What’s next

If Dunn does resign, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis will be responsible for scheduling a primary and special election to fill the vacant congressional seat. The timing of these elections could coincide with the already scheduled primary and general elections in August and November 2026.

The takeaway

Dunn's potential early resignation from Congress would be a significant setback for the Republican Party, further eroding their already slim majority in the House of Representatives. This development highlights the fragility of the GOP's control of the chamber and the potential for unexpected political shifts to impact the balance of power in Washington.