Newly elected members of the US House of Representatives gathered at the Capitol for a traditional group photograph, with footage showing them ascending the Capitol steps, mingling in clusters and exchanging warm greetings, some punctuated by enthusiastic high-fives. The freshman cohort, drawn from Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, New York, Virginia and beyond, came together for a mandatory orientation programme designed to introduce first-time lawmakers to parliamentary protocol, their impending duties and life on Capitol Hill.

Their arrival in Washington follows November's midterm elections, which yielded sweeping gains for the Democrats alongside a markedly smaller intake of Republicans. The transition also brings incoming politicians into contact with departing incumbents clearing their desks, signalling the formal handover to the next legislature.S1S2

Over the coming weeks, the novices will immerse themselves in legislative mechanics and institutional operations before the 120th Congress convenes on 3 January 2027, when members will take the oath of office and formally assume their mandates.S1S2