Hakeem Jeffries is the only declared candidate to be the next Speaker. House Democrats first pick their nominee in a private, secret-ballot caucus vote. Then the full House elects the Speaker in a public vote on January 3, 2027, where the vote of every member is recorded and the winner needs a majority of those voting for a named person (218 if all 435 vote).
Next: House Democrats caucus vote
Where they stand →Members of Congress can still own and trade individual stocks. In July 2026 the House passed a partial ban, 232 to 198. On Sept. 30 the Senate fell seven votes short of the 60 needed to take it up. Every bill that has not become law dies on Jan. 3, so the new Congress has to start over. On Nov. 4, Hakeem Jeffries told House Democrats a ban on members trading stocks is part of their agenda.
Next: House votes on its rules for the new Congress
Where they stand →Senate Democrats elect their leader for the new majority in a closed-door, secret-ballot vote expected in early December. Chuck Schumer needs a simple majority of the caucus, projected at 54 to 56 senators.
Next: Senate Democrats caucus vote
Where they stand →