*Party division totals are based on election day results.
Republicans swept the 1994 elections and won control of both the House and Senate for the first time in 40 years. Speaker Newt Gingrich of Georgia set an ambitious course behind the Republican “Contract with America.” President Bill Clinton successfully vetoed Republican spending and tax cuts; an ensuing budget impasse resulted in two government shutdowns. In 1996, Congress and the White House compromised on an overhaul of the nation’s welfare system.
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To view complete lists of individuals who have served in these leadership and official positions since the 1st Congress, visit the People section
1Resigned November 22, 1996. CQ Almanac (1996) 104th Congress, 2nd sess.: 1-20.
2Appointed November 22, 1996. "Congressional (Speaker) Press Release," November 22, 1996. Roll Call, 25 November 1996: 1; 16.