ASA Analysis of the 2024 General Election

On Tuesday, November 5, elections were held in the United States. ASA has been monitoring these results and continues to track several races that have not yet been determined.

As of 5 p.m. on November 18, there have already been many notable results of importance to ASA members. ASA looks forward to continuing to advance the interests of the specialty with all of our newly-elected officials in the upcoming Congress. Below are some highlights, which will be updated as more election information becomes available.

Note:  Congress has returned for a “lame duck” session for the last few weeks of 2024.  All members of the current Congress, even those defeated for reelection, remain as seated members until the new Congress commences in January 2025. ASA is urging lawmakers to take action on various issues critical to the specialty and patient safety before Congress adjourns. Take action here.

PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

President Donald Trump was elected as the next President of the United States. Democratic nominee and current Vice President Kamala Harris fell short and conceded the race on Wednesday, November 6.  ASAPAC does not participate in Presidential elections.

HOUSE AND SENATE MAKEUP

In both the Senate and House of Representatives, there are a few races still too close to call.

Despite the undetermined races, enough races have been called to confirm that Republicans have obtained control of the Senate and have also maintained control of the House of Representatives. Republicans will have a 3 seat majority in the Senate and a narrow majority in the House, with 218 seats compared to 212 Democratic seats. There are still several races too close to call.

PHYSICIANS IN CONGRESS

In the 118th Congress, there are 19 physicians with 15 serving in the House and 4 serve in the Senate. ASA applauds the many physicians and dentists who will be serving in the upcoming Congress. ASAPAC was proud to support several successful physicians and dentists running for Congress.

The first physician anesthesiologist elected to Congress, Representative Andy Harris, MD (R-MD-01) won his reelection with 59.9% of the vote. Congressman Harris has been a member of ASA and received ASAPAC support.

ASA is pleased to welcome at least five new ASAPAC-backed physicians to the 119th Congress:  Herb Conaway, MD (D-NJ-3), internal medicine; Maxine Dexter, MD (D-OR-3), pulmonology; Mike Kennedy, MD (R-UT), family medicine; Kelly Morrison (D-MN), obstetrics & gynecology; and Bob Onder, MD (R-MO-3), allergist.  We look forward to continuing the strong relationships forged during their service in their respective state legislatures in the Congress.  At this time, key ASA-ally Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, MD (R-IA-1), chair of the House Veterans Affairs Health Subcommittee, maintains a narrow lead over her opponent.  ASA-supported Rep. Yadira Caraveo, MD (D-CO-08) was not successful in her reelection campaign.  Long-time supporters Congressman Larry Bucshon, MD (R-IN-08) and Congressman Michael Burgess, MD (R-TX-26) will be retiring this Congress.

PHYSICIAN ANESTHESIOLOGISTS ELECTED TO STATE OFFICE

This year, several physician anesthesiologists were state legislative candidates or incumbents. ASA member Michelle Au, MD was re-elected to the Georgia House. ASA member Bill Haunter was reelected to the Illinois state House.  Bryan Terry, MD was reelected to the Tennessee House of Representatives. ASA member Tom Oliverson, MD was reelected to the Texas House of Representatives.

Anesthesiologist assistant, George Hufstetler was reelected to the Georgia Senate.