Newly elected members of the U.S. House of Representatives gathered for the traditional photo at the Capitol

Traditional photo session for new members of Congress

In Washington, newly elected members of the U.S. House of Representatives climbed the steps of the Capitol for the traditional group photo. As the footage published by Euronews shows, the future lawmakers mingled in groups, exchanged greetings — some with enthusiasm, complete with high-fives.

Who came and why

The incoming class includes representatives from Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, New York, Virginia and other states. Their arrival in the capital follows the November midterm elections, which brought major gains for the Democrats and a noticeably smaller number of seats for the Republicans. During the transition period, arriving politicians cross paths with outgoing sitting members of Congress who are packing up their offices — this is how the handover to the next Congress takes shape.

What comes next

For the newly elected lawmakers, the mandatory orientation program has begun at the Capitol: it familiarizes them with parliamentary rules, upcoming duties and life on Capitol Hill. In the coming weeks, the newcomers will have to dive into the mechanics of legislation and the work of institutions. The formal swearing-in will take place on January 3, 2027, when the 120th Congress convenes and members of the House take the oath of office.