New US Congress members pose for traditional photo at the Capitol
Newly elected members of the US House of Representatives have arrived in Washington for a mandatory orientation programme after November's midterm elections. The 120th Congress convenes on 3 January 2027.
Newly elected members of the US House of Representatives gathered at the Capitol in Washington, the seat of the American legislature, for a mandatory orientation programme. They arrive after November's midterm elections, in which the Democrats made sweeping gains while the Republicans brought in a markedly smaller group of newcomers.
Footage shows the new lawmakers climbing the Capitol steps, chatting in small groups and greeting one another warmly, with some enthusiastic high-fives. The first-time members come from Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, New York, Virginia and other states.
Preparing for office
The programme is designed to introduce the freshmen to parliamentary protocol, their upcoming duties and daily life on Capitol Hill. During this transitional period, the incoming politicians also cross paths with departing incumbents who are clearing their desks, a sign of the formal handover to the next legislature.
Over the coming weeks, the newcomers will learn how legislation is made and how the institution operates. When the 120th Congress convenes on 3 January 2027, the members will take the oath of office and formally assume their mandates.
