Jim Justice Sworn Into U.S. Senate by Chuck Grassley, Boosting GOP to 52 Seats and Total to 99

Jan 14, 2025, 08:12 PM

Jim Justice, the former two-term governor of West Virginia, was sworn into the U.S. Senate on Tuesday, increasing the Republican lead to 52 seats against the Democrats' 47. Justice, who delayed his swearing-in until his successor as governor took office, replaces former Independent Senator Joe Manchin. The ceremony was conducted by Senate President Pro Tempore Chuck Grassley, with fellow West Virginia GOP Senator Shelley Moore Capito in attendance. Justice's entry into the Senate brings the total membership to 99, with one vacancy left by former Senator JD Vance, who resigned to become Vice President-elect. Additional changes are expected soon with the appointment of senators from Ohio and Florida to replace Vance and Senator Marco Rubio, respectively, who is set to become Secretary of State.