July 1, 1844 - November 4, 1845 1846 → 73 seats 0 seats 79 6 Start date 1844 | 148 seats 73 seats 142 79 6 6 | |
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Winner John Wesley D | ||
Elections to the United States House of Representatives for the 29th Congress were held at different dates in the various states from July 1, 1844 (Louisiana) to November 4, 1845 (Mississippi). All 227 members of the House of Representatives elected took their seats when Congress convened December 1, 1845. The elections mostly coincided with the 1844 presidential election, won by dark horse Democratic candidate James K. Polk, who won on a campaign advocating territorial expansion. The new states of Florida, Texas and Iowa were added during this Congress. Florida had actually been admitted on the last day of the 28th Congress, but was not represented until the 29th. Iowa and Texas both elected their first representatives in 1846.
Contents
Despite Polk's victory, the Democrats had a net loss of six Representatives. They still retained a large majority of 142-79 over their major rivals, the Whigs. The American Party, based on the nativist "Know Nothing" movement characterized by opposition to immigration and anti-Catholicism, gained six seats, its first in Congress. The fragmentation of votes by this new party, combined with a generally negative political environment cause by dislike of outgoing President John Tyler, contributed to the slight Democratic loses.
Election summaries
Five seats were added for the new States of Florida (1), Iowa (2), and Texas (2). Florida was represented for the entirety of the 29th Congress, while Texas was unrepresented for part of the 1st session and Iowa for all of the 1st session.
Florida
Yulee did not serve, being elected to the Senate. A special election was held which was, initially, won by Edward C. Cabell (W). The election was successfully challenged by William H. Brockenbrough (D).